Lucas Torreira Almost Joined Euro Club Ahead Of Arsenal

Lucas Torreira’s agent has revealed that he would convinced the midfielder to join Napoli ahead of Arsenal if Carlo Ancelotti had confirmed his appointment at Naples earlier than he did.

The Uruguayan completed his summer move for the Emirates from Sampodria following weeks of speculation that saw the Gunners lead the chase for his signature but his agent, Pablo Bentacur has claimed his client would have signed for Napoli if he could have his way.

Bentacur said: ‘It’s a pity, I’m sorry Ancelotti wasn’t there at the start of the negotiations, he’d have been a great help for Torreira, he has tremendous international experience.’

‘But then Lucas called me and he confirmed to me that negotiations with Arsenal were too advanced for any second thoughts. ‘If Arsenal had collapsed then Napoli would have been perfect.’

Lucas Torreira on the other hand, had earlier revealed his happiness to join Arsenal ahead of other suitors, while highlighting Suarez’s influence in the deal, he said:

‘Luis Suarez was very helpful. He spoke to Raul [Sanllehi], who brought many players to Barcelona,’ Torreira said. ‘I was really grateful to Luis and only a short time ago I sent him a message of thanks.

‘He told me how wonderful the Premier League is, describing it as the best, and he said what a great time he had at Liverpool. ‘When we were together for internationals he would often talk about the Premier League. I’m incredibly proud [to be here]. It feels such a privilege.