Arsenal could replace Bacary Sagna with Benfica right-back Maxi Pereira this summer, FootballDirectNews.com understands.
The Gunners are facing the likely depature of the long-serving Sagna, who is being linked with a whole host of top clubs after turning down the offer of a new contract at the Emirates Stadium, leaving him able to move on a free transfer at the end of the season.
The FA Cup final against Hull City this weekend is likely to be the Frenchman’s final game for the north London club, and manager Arsene Wenger is seemingly eyeing Pereira as a good option to come in as a replacement.
The Uruguayan international has been a solid and consistent performer for Benfica over the years, and his leadership and commitment have seen him become their vice-captain. Pereira was on the losing side in last night’s Europa League final clash against Sevilla, and could be ready to move on after seven years with the Portuguese giants, with a move to a top European club like Arsenal surely a tempting one. An Arsenal source confirmed that Wenger was considering Pereira as one of his top targets if Sagna does leave, and the club are reasonably confident that they could get the player for a decent price.