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Arsenal and Chelsea are reportedly among a number of Premier League clubs keeping tabs on Bologna striker Santiago Castro. This is according to CaughtOffSide, who claim that Aston Villa, Everton and Nottingham Forest are also showing an interest in the 20-year-old number nine (via TeamTalk).
However, this report clarifies that the Argentina under-23 international would be most keen to move to either Arsenal or Chelsea. With the player contracted with his current employers till the summer of 2028, do not expect this to be a cheap purchase.
The Gunners' interest in Castro seems fairly reasonable, given the club are operating without an out-and-out striker. Kai Havertz currently leads the line at the Emirates, while Gabriel Jesus is playing a secondary role. Other options for this position in north London include Leandro Trossard and Gabriel Martinelli.
On the other hand, the Blues are fairly short of top-quality strikers in their camp, with Nicolas Jackson the current first choice. The likes of Joao Felix and Christopher Nkunku are the other options for manager Enzo Maresca.
As far as Castro is concerned, a move to Arsenal may be the most tempting at the moment. The Gunners are poised to challenge for top honors like the Premier League and the UEFA Champions League this campaign.
Moreover, Havertz could easily be pushed into a midfield slot, making the striker's position available for a newcomer. Aston Villa, who are also in the mix, have multiple contenders, including Ollie Watkins and Jhon Duran, in this role.
To date, Castro has made 17 appearances across competitions for Bologna, bagging four goals and two assists.
Arsenal and Chelsea in the mix to sign Brazilian striker- Reports
Arsenal and Chelsea are also said to be in the mix, along with a host of Premier League clubs looking to sign Botafogo striker Igor Jesus. This is according to a report from Fichajes, who claim that Nottingham Forest, Brentford, Brighton, and Newcastle United are also in the running (via SportMole).
It is believed that the forward will cost a fair bit, with the report stating that Jesus' current employers are looking for a transfer fee of around £33.5 million. According to this news outlet, any offers under the stated sum will not be entertained.
Jesus moved from Shabab Al Ahli to Botafogo only this summer on a free transfer. So far, he's made 19 appearances across competitions this campaign, bagging seven goals and an assist.
