Arsenal look to have withdrawn their pursuit of Celta Vigo striker Nolito because of his €18 million (£13.3 million) asking price, says La Liga expert Guillem Balague.
The 29-year-old has been in impressive form for Celta Vigo, netting eight goals in 16 La Liga appearances thus far, and has reportedly caught the eye of Arsene Wenger as a result.
Nolito continues to be linked with a move to Arsenal, with some reports suggesting Wenger is looking to add to his strike-force when the January transfer window opens as the Gunners eye up their first Premier League title in 12 years.
But Balague has since quashed speculation that Nolito will move to Arsenal, suggesting the Gunners don’t want him and feel his €18 million asking price is not value for money.
Balague was asked the question on his Sky Sports column, he answered:
‘I know for a fact that Arsenal don’t want him.
‘They feel for 18m euros, it’s not what they’re looking for so instead of me answering, that’s Arsenal answering for you.’
Wenger has admitted he may be forced to spend in the January market, but hasn’t indicated who he may be after. According to Balague, it won’t be Nolito.
Arsene Wenger should buy one DM when the January transfer window opens,Victor Wanyama is a better better option
Victor Wanyama would be a more suitable plug in the gap for Arsenal than would any striker available on the market. Wenger must be decisive during this window. His usual naivety in the transfer wont do us good bearing in mind the injury crisis in hand.