Reports indicate that Arsenal are contemplating a potential loan departure for midfielder Fabio Vieira in January as they weigh up options to accommodate high-profile signings. Since his £34million move from Porto in 2022, Vieira has grappled with consistency, facing competition from players like Martin Odegaard and Granit Xhaka last season, while the arrival of Kai Havertz has further hindered his progress.
Despite a promising start to this season, Vieira’s momentum has waned, highlighted by a red card in Arsenal’s 3-1 victory over Burnley. This turn of events has fueled speculation about a temporary exit from Emirates Stadium, with Marseille among the clubs reportedly interested. However, the decision might hinge on changes within the Marseille boardroom, specifically the stance of their new sporting director, Mehdi Benatia.
The situation at Arsenal remains uncertain as the club has yet to finalise which players might depart in the winter window.
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Per Fabrizio Romano, Mehdi Benatia might hold the ultimate authority in determining the decision to acquire Fabio Vieira.
He said, “Every player has a chance to do that. Today we decided to start with Kai, we knew that Fabio would have a big impact especially in the last few minutes, or final minutes if we needed something.
“Something has changed with Fabio, you notice with the crowd when he steps in he is different to how he was last year. He’s more mature, he’s more senior in the squad and his confidence in the squad is high so I’m really happy to have those options.”
Vieira, who has started only two Premier League games this season despite impactful substitute appearances, drew praise from manager Mikel Arteta for his evolving maturity and influence within the squad.
However, Vieira’s struggle for regular playing time persists, echoing a pattern from the previous season where despite recognition from Arteta, consistent minutes proved elusive. His potential departure could create space for new signings, aligning with Arsenal’s rumoured interest in signing a forward during the January transfer window, with Ivan Toney and Victor Osimhen among the touted targets.
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