Arsenal keen on Porto winger to replace expensive flop Willian
Martin Macdonald
- 17 Jun 2021 16:18 BST
Arsenal are reportedly targetting a move for Porto winger Jesus Corona this summer as they look to get rid of Willian.
Willian arrived at the Emirates in controversial circumstances a year ago from Arsenal's London rivals Chelsea.
Despite the Gunners laying off a number of staff during the pandemic, they subsequently brought Willian in on a free transfer after enticing him with a reported salary of £190,000 per week.
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The Brazilian has repaid the significant wage outlay with just one Premier League goal and five assists in 27 appearances.
According to Sky Sports, there are a number of clubs around Europe looking to take him off Arsenal's hands, though his apparent first choice is an unlikely return to Chelsea.
Two other options could be a move to Brazil or potentially to David Beckham's MLS side Inter Miami.
With Bukayo Saka, Emile Smith Rowe and Nicolas Pepe ahead of Willian in the attacking midfield pecking order in North London, he is said to be considering his options.
Why do Arsenal want Corona?
Arteta is not only looking for a potential replacement for Willian, but for Hector Bellerin too.
The Spaniard has been with Arsenal for over a decade but has been strongly linked with a summer exit, potentially returning to Barcelona or moving to Paris Saint-Germain.
Corona is able to take up a role at right-back, right-midfield, or as a winger, and according to the Daily Mail, it is his ability to play in a number of positions that is a major attraction for Arteta.
The Mexican has plied his trade for Porto since 2015 and has won two Primeira Liga titles and one Taca de Portugal title with the club.
Over the last three seasons in Portugal, he has tallied up nine goals and recorded 27 assists.
