Arsenal in talks with Orlando City’s Facundo Torres
Facundo Torres was one of Orlando City’s stars this season as he scored nine goals with eight assists, helping the Florida side to seventh in the Eastern Conference. He also scored twice in their U.S. Open Cup final 3-0 victory over the Sacramento Republic.
This form has attracted interest from Europe and according to the Evening Standard, “Arsenal are considering a January move for Orlando City forward Facundo Torres.
“The Gunners are due to hold talks with the Uruguay international’s agent as they target a right winger to provide competition for Bukayo Saka.”
Mikel Arteta’s side knows first-hand how good Torres is, as he scored against them in a pre-season friendly.
Facundo Torres could be making the move to the Premier League
Prior to joining Orlando, the Uruguayan was at Penarol, where he scored 16 goals and made 15 assists in 71 games. He also won the Uruguayan Premier Division whilst at the club.
Torres currently has ten caps for Uruguay but has not played for them this year. It is touch and go as to whether or not he will be going to Qatar.
The Gunners currently top the Premier League and have qualified for the knockout stages of the Europa League.
South Americans have played a key part in Arteta’s side, with Brazilians Gabriel Jesus, Gabriel Martinelli and Gabriel Magalhães all in impressive form.
Saka – who Torres would be competing for a starting place with – has been in great form, with five goals and four assists in 12 league games, although he limped off injured against Nottingham Forest last weekend which is a worry for his club and England with the World Cup fast approaching.
Is it time for Torres to make the move to Europe?
Torres is just 22 years old, having already played in South America and North America, and the next logical step is to move to Europe.
He has proven he can perform well in MLS and, for his development, a move to the Gunners would be right if he plays regularly.
Torres is predominately a left winger but he can also play on the right wing and as a second striker. This versatility would be key to Arteta’s side as they will need strength in depth if they are to compete with Manchester City for the title this year.
Arsenal has a very young side, with their captain Martin Ødegaard being just 23. The future is looking very bright for the Gunners. Arteta has already won the FA Cup with the club and more trophies will be expected.
Even if he moves and goes out on loan to another European club, it would be a step up for Torres. Players such as Nelson, Emile Smith-Rowe and Eddie Nketiah have all had spells on loan before making a mark in Arsenal’s first team.
The move to the Premier League will be a step up but the opportunity to move to Arsenal is not one that Torres should let pass by.
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