Arsenal Could Be Only Club Reportedly Willing To Spend $49M For 'Next Cristiano Ronaldo'

Premier League giant Arsenal has been linked to a teenager who is being viewed as the “next Cristiano Ronaldo.”

In the Premier League, Arsenal has been one of the clubs expected to make certain moves once the transfer market opens up this summer. As early as now, the Gunners are already linked to some notable possible signings. One of them is Sporting Lisbon ace Joelson Fernandes, a left winger who has been earning comparisons to another Sporting legend Cristiano Ronaldo.

According to a recent report from Record (transcript by HITC.com), Arsenal are planning to make a move for Fernandes. The 17-year-old has a release clause of £40 million ($49.4 million). Fernandes’ skills on the pitch have been remarkable and some fans and pundits already refer to him as the “next Ronaldo.” In fact, video compilations recently surfaced online detailing why Arsenal wants to sign Fernandes. On top of all the buzz surrounding Fernandes’ possible move to Arsenal, Gunners fans on Twitter are already thrilled about welcoming the Portuguese sensation into the club.

The report further stated that Arsenal coach Mikel Arteta has been leaning towards signing defensive-minded players such as midfielder Thomas Partey and an array of centre-backs. Unfortunately, Arsenal face one hurdle in signing Fernandes. Despite the strong interest, the transfer is unlikely to happen as the club is reportedly not capable of spending £40 million ($49.4 million) for a teenager. However, what remains a good news for Arsenal is that no other club will be spending the said amount on Fernandes either.

Meanwhile, Arsenal’s Premier League rival Manchester United is also being linked to a prospect who is also being compared to a legend like Ronaldo. Recent reports claim that the Red Devils are keen on signing Pietro Pellegri, a Monaco striker hailed as the “New Lionel Messi.”

Man United have had some of their best moments as a club with Ronaldo several years ago. However, it seems like they have already moved on from it and now open to finding their next superstar. Along with Arsenal, United are also looking to rebuild the team this summer. Aside from Pellegri, the club has also remained focused on finally sealing the deal with their biggest prospect Jadon Sancho.

Sancho is now being chased by several clubs across Europe’s top 5 leagues following an impressive tun with Bundesliga contenders Borussia Dortmund.

Arsenal on the other hand, have just completed signing George Lewis, a Norwegian youngster from Fram Larvik.