Why Arsenal have done the right thing by keeping hold of Lucas Torreira

Arsenal midfielder Lucas Torreira’s agent Pablo Bentancur has revealed there was a “possibility” his client could have joined AC Milan earlier this summer but the Gunners rejected the move.

The Uruguay international, 23, has previously worked with AC Milan boss Marco Giampaolo at Sampdoria and still have a good relationship till date.

However, Arsenal have done very well to rebuff AC Milan’s advances and keep hold of Lucas Torreira for this season.

Torreira, 23, joined the Gunners from Sampdoria last summer, impressing for Unai Emery’s side during his first season in north London. He made 50 appearances across all competitions, with 34 appearances alone coming in the Premier League.

The diminutive Uruguayan really impressed with his tenacity and work rate in the middle of the park and his best moment probably came when he scored in the 4-2 victory over Tottenham Hotspur in December. He then scored against Huddersfield Town two games later and his playing style made him a key member of Arsenal’s side last term.

Even though Torreira’s form faded in the second half of the 2018/19 campaign, one should keep in mind that he is only 23 and still has a long way to go in order to fulfil his high potential. He is the only midfield enforcer in the Arsenal squad that makes him such a crucial player for Emery.

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It was great to watch the ex-Sampdoria man take very less time to adapt to the fast-paced nature of the Premier League and quickly become an indispensable figure for Emery’s side. Being a good passer of the ball and a tough tackler, Torreira also showed last season he can chip in with some important goals.

Verdict

Arsenal have headed into the new season with a strong squad at their disposal. And retaining the services of the reliable Torreira was as good as any summer signing Emery made during the summer transfer window.