LUCAS TORREIRA’S season-long loan move to Fiorentina from Arsenal has finally been announced.
The 25-year-old was told by the Gunners he was free to depart this summer having been deemed as surplus to requirements by Mikel Arteta.
And the Uruguay international, who spent last season on loan at Atletico Madrid, made a return to Italy his priority.
Torreira joined Pescara’s academy in 2013, before joining Sampdoria two years later, where he stayed until he linked up with Arsenal in 2018.
But he has now sealed a return back to Serie A with Fiorentina, who have the option to permanently sign him next year for £13million.
A club statement from Fiorentina stated that Torreira will wear the No18 jersey for the club.
It read: “ACF Fiorentina is delighted to announce the signing of Lucas Torreira on loan with an option to purchase from Arsenal Football Club.
“The Uruguay international – born in Fray Bentos on 11 February 1996 – spent last season at Atletico Madrid, helping the club win La Liga.
BETTING SPECIAL – GET £50 IN FREE BETS WITH WILLIAM HILL
“Torreira has 31 Uruguay caps to his name and recently played for his country in the Copa America.
“The midfielder will wear the No.18 shirt at Fiorentina.”
Torreira is the third high-profile central midfielder to depart the Emirates this summer.
French star Matteo Guendouzi has returned to his native France to link up with Marseille.
Meanwhile Newcastle splashed £25m on academy graduate Joe Willock following his impressive loan spell at St James’ Park last term.
And with Mohamed Elneny facing an uncertain future in North London having entered the final year of his contract, Arsenal could look to bring in another midfielder.
Lyon ace Houssem Aouar is believed to be attracting interest from both the Gunners and rivals Tottenham.
The Ligue 1 outfit are keen to offload the 23-year-old, with it claimed they would be willing to accept a loan-to-buy transfer.
FREE BETS: GET OVER £2,000 IN NEW CUSTOMER DEALS
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
