5 potential suitors for wantaway Arsenal midfielder Lucas Torreira

Although people acting in a “bad way” have scuppered his chances of sealing a permanent move to Fiorentina, there remains little prospect of Lucas Torreira being reintegrated into Mikel Arteta’s pre-season plans and he will likely end his regrettable Arsenal adventure this summer.

But while dreams of a switch to the Artemio Franchi now lie in ruin, the 26-year-old nonetheless enjoyed a hugely successful loan spell there, earning both regular minutes and the affection of the Viola’s passionate Ultras. His committed, hard-working style should pique the interest of many clubs across the continent.

5 possible destinations for Arsenal midfielder Lucas Torreira ahead of a potential move this summer

Consecutive loan spells in the Iberian Peninsula and Tuscany indicate Torreira’s preference for life on warmer shores, so here are five potential destinations for his next long-term home.

1. Lazio

Said to be a leading candidate for his signature, Lazio can offer Torreira an alternative route back to Serie A pastures and boost their aspirations of ending a two-year Champions League hiatus.

Coached by former Chelsea boss Maurizio Sarri, Le Aquile like to set up in a possession-based 4-3-3 system and put considerable onus on the defensive midfielder to instigate attacking patterns from deeper zones – an instruction reliably executed by Jorginho under Sarri in both Naples and west London.

Such playmaking responsibility may not be quite as suitable for Torreira and his gritty inclinations, but he is accustomed to operating as the link between attack and defence and has the added benefit of spatial awareness to avoid surrendering the ball in vulnerable positions.

The Uruguayan’s disciplined and energetic manner would also help to mitigate Lazio’s exposure in transitional play. This is an issue that has plagued many iterations of ‘Sarriball’ sides as the Italian often encourages his troops to press high up the pitch and secure turnovers, but any chink in the armour leaves the backline in serious danger. Perhaps a persistent, terrier-like presence would address the counterthreat.

It may not be a perfect fit, but it is a financially viable punt worth taking.

Suitability Rating: 7/10

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