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LONDON. — Arsene Wenger has denied any truth in rumours linking Mario Balotelli with a move to Arsenal.
The Italian striker has been mooted as a potential Gunners target this summer — a possibility which has been played up by the player’s agent Mino Raiola.
However, with reports of a £27 million deal edging closer, Wenger has seemingly moved to deny any interest in the AC Milan forward.
When quizzed over the speculation, Wenger told beIN Sports World Cup show that it was “pure invention”.
While the Frenchman has been known to publicly mask his desire to sign certain players, the denial of any interest in Balotelli will come as little surprise, with the former Manchester City man being a far cry from Wenger’s usual transfer targets.
But the Daily Express reported yesterday that Puma are putting pressure on Arsenal to finalise a deal for Balotelli before July 10 so he can feature at the Gunners’ new kit launch. Arsenal have been heavily linked with a move for the former Manchester City man this summer after AC Milan decided to let Balotelli move on.
Indeed, reports in Italy suggest the Gunners are preparing a £27m bid to beat Monaco to the 23-year-old.
It has also been suggested that Puma – who signed a long-term shirt sponsorship deal with Arsenal last season — could help fund the deal due to their endorsement deal with the Italian.
And fresh reports suggest that the German sportswear giants are pressuring Arsenal to get a deal done before July 10.
That would enable Balotelli to play a prominent role in the new kit unveiling – something Puma are keen to capitalise on.
Meanwhile, Arsenal are hoping to pip Liverpool and Manchester United to the signing of Barcelona winger Alexis Sanchez. — Metro.
Online Reporter