Arsenal are set to reach a major roadblock in their pursuit to sign a new midfielder ahead of the upcoming transfer window. With Mohamed Elneny set to leave the Emirates in the summer once his contracts expire, Mikel Arteta is keen to bolster his armoury.
The Gunners have registered interest in Fabio Vieira, according to a report in the Sunday Mirror. However, Jurgen Klopp's side have reportedly reached an agreement to have the first refusal on the Porto midfielder.
Vieira, who is said to have £12.7m release clause in his contract, has enjoyed a great vein of form for the Portuguese giants this season, directly contributing towards 39 goals in 23 appearances. The Portugal youth international has steered his side towards reclaiming the Liga Nos title from rivals Sporting.
READ MORE: Paulo Dybala gives Chelsea, Arsenal and Spurs transfer green light as agent spotted 'in London'
The Sunday Mirror claim that Porto are open to the prospect of relinquishing Vieira's services amid interest from Arsenal. However, Liverpool's first-refusal clause poses a major problem should Edu look to secure the midfielder's services.
This would mean that should the north Londoners come in to try and sign Vieira, Porto would then be required to inform the Reds and offer them the chance to sign the player instead. But, if were Klopp's side to make a move then they would apparently need to pay more money in performance-related add-ons.
Liverpool's agreement with Porto follows shortly after the arrival of Luis Diaz, who got his feet under the table at Anfield in January for just £49m. Diaz featured 45 times alongside Vieira prior to leaving Porto, handing the Reds greater leverage should Arsenal look to lock horns.
The north Londoners seem to be keen to wrap up their summer business early. Arsenal have agreed to sign Sao Paulo winger Marquinhos, football.london understands.
After extensive talks with Gunners technical director Edu, the talented 19-year-old will join the club this summer. However, Marquinhos' arrival in north London will not have any impact on the club's summer transfer plans, with Jesus still remaining a target. In fact, football.london understands that Arsenal remain confident of sealing a deal for the City forward, with 'positive' talks ongoing between his representative and Edu.
