Lucas Torreira is on his way back to Arsenal, at least for the time being, after bidding an emotional farewell to Fiorentina and their supporters with the chances of completing a permanent transfer now over.
The Uruguay international enjoyed a productive 2021/22 season on loan with the Florence outfit as he made a total of 35 appearances across all competitions, getting forward from his defensive midfield position to score five goals and even weigh in with a couple of assists.
Furthermore, Torreira has recently made no secret of his desire to join Fiorentina on a permanent basis but the Serie A side have performed a u-turn over a potential deal as it was reported by football.london towards the end of last season they were in negotiations with Arsenal to activate the option to buy the midfielder for around £13million.
READ MORE: Arsenal's stance on Aaron Hickey bid revealed as Mikel Arteta and Edu make decision on £18m deal
Fast forward a few months and the 26-year-old has confirmed that Fiorentina have decided against taking up the option to turn his deal in to a permanent one - thus causing the Gunners to miss out on a welcome £13m windfall - with the midfielder suggesting his move was prevented by "those acting in a bad way".
"Unfortunately, the time has come to say goodbye," Torreira wrote on Instagram. "It is with great sadness that my relationship with ACF Fiorentina ends. Club that gave me so much love and support all this time. From the beginning they made me feel at home. I discovered a wonderful city that was always kind to me, both on and off the pitch.
"They always showed me affection, respect and for that I will always be grateful. Thanks to his confidence I was able to find the continuity and level I wanted. I owe that to my teammates and all the fans who gave us energy game by game. Know that I always left everything on the field of play for these colors.
"Special thanks to all the club staff; cooks, props, manager, physiotherapist and security. They are the fundamental piece for the functioning of this institution. Know that I did my best to continue being part of this club, but unfortunately there were those who, acting in a bad way, according to my understanding, managed to prevent this from happening and that is why I have to leave.
"I wish you the best for the future. They will have one more fan cheering from wherever I have to be. #ForzaViola."
It's not clear as to who Torreira is blaming for the collapse of his move to Fiorentina, but following their big payday in the January transfer window when they sold Dusan Vlahovic to Juventus one can assume they shouldn't have had a problem triggering the £13m clause to sign him after banking £66m five months ago.
With that said, Torreira is now facing an uncertain future. For example, it's clear he doesn't have a future at Arsenal as his shirt number has already been given to Gabriel Martinelli ahead of the new season and with one year remaining on his contract, the Gunners may have to reduce their asking price otherwise they may find it difficult to move the midfielder on this summer.
