Arsenal: Only one winner between Lucas Torreira and Jean Michael Seri

Arsenal are reportedly interested in both Jean Michael Seri and Lucas Torreira. If they could only sign one, though, there is only one winner.

While early on in the transfer window, it seemed as though Arsenal were focusing on the centre-half position. They pressed hard to sign Sokratis Papastathopoulos, a deal that is still waiting for official confirmation, and were heavily linked with the young pair, Caglar Soyuncu and Benjamin Pavard.

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However, more recently, the rumours have shifted away from the centre-back position, perhaps as a result of the inevitable addition of Sokratis, and towards the midfield. Most prominently, there have been two names leading the reports: Lucas Torreira of Sampdoria; Jean Michael Seri of Nice.

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Initially, the Gunners were ostensibly more interested in the prospect of Seri coming to the Emirates, with Sky Sports leading the charge on those rumours. However, as time has progressed, reports from Italy have intensified linking Torreira with a £22 million move, so much so that Seri, per his agent, when talking to KissKiss Napoli, has turned to other options:

"“We are in talks with Napoli and he’s tempted by the idea of wearing the jersey. He would really like to play for Napoli and Carlo Ancelotti could get the best out of his characteristics.”"

Given the budget restrictions that Arsenal are currently working under, a budget reportedly of £50 million, it is unlikely that they will be able to sign both Seri and Torreira. So, a very simple question must be asked: If you could only sign one of them, Seri for £35 million and Torreira for £22 million, which one would you sign?

For me, it comes down to a simple question of position. While both Torreira and Seri play in central midfield, they do so with a very different nuance. Seri is a pure, box-to-box player who bounds up and down the pitch with great energy and a sound range of passing. Torreira, on the other hand, despite possessing the same on-the-ball abilities as Seri, is an unadulterated anchorman. He is, without question, a defensive midfielder. And that is what makes him so valuable.

Arsenal do not need another ball-playing midfielder. Although I do believe that Seri would be an astute addition, he does not provide the defensive balance that is required as an out-and-out defensive midfielder. Torreira does, though.

Add to that fact the disparity in price — Torreira’s £22 million release clause makes him an absolute bargain, while Seri’s £35 million reported fee is more in line with the modern market — and age — Torreira is 22; Seri will be 27 by the time the next season rolls around — and there is really only one answer to the question.

Next: Arsenal: 3 things that Lucas Torreira brings

Missing out on Seri would be a shame, but if it means that Torreira arrives in north London, then it is a small compromise to make. There is only one winner in the battle between Seri and Torreira, and it’s not especially close.