Arsenal Handed Lucas Torreira Escape Route

Mikel Arteta Discusses Lucas Torreira Rumours

Having trimmed the squad of five players (in some capacity) already this window, more work is still needed to create a harmonious, balanced group.

Certain players are destined for summer departures, yet if those moves can be fast-tracked to this month then no eyelids will be batted.

While Monaco’s interest would only constitute a different loan, ensuring the Uruguayan is playing football comes first.

"“We have been talking to Lucas, Edu has been very close to the situation,” Arteta told the official Arsenal website. “He hasn’t been playing as many minutes as he would like, as we would like, but to be fair the team is doing so well in Spain and it is understandable they don’t change the team so much. “We just want to be right behind Lucas, protect him, help him make the right decisions for the future, so let’s see what happens. But we are monitoring the situation very closely.”"

Of course, any decision rests on Diego Simeone’s side, who are currently sitting atop La Liga and in with their best chance a league title since 2014. While Torreira isn’t playing, it’s an understandable position given the congested fixture lists, potential COVID-19 related absences and the thin squad Atletico have.

Due to that, Arteta appeared somewhat resigned to him remaining in Madrid.

"He added: “I don’t know. At the moment he’s going to stay at Atletico, that’s my belief and I don’t know if that is going to change in the next two or three days.”"

No door should be closed on this one but Atletico are hardly going to cave in to the demands of a football club who pinched one of their prized assets minutes before the summer transfer window closed. They’re the ones having the last laugh though, sitting comfortably atop La Liga with games in hand on those closest to them.

If deal can be agreed then it must be concluded, especially for a side showing genuine interest in a permanent deal.