Arsenal’s Fabio Vieira could be on his way out this summer, with boss Mikel Arteta reportedly dissatisfied with his training performances.
Vieira, who was signed from Porto for £35million in 2022, saw limited action this season despite a promising start. The 23-year-old played in eight of Arsenal’s first 12 Premier League games and contributed three goals.
However, after being sidelined for several months due to suspension and injury, he only made three more appearances and was mostly left on the bench. In fact, Vieira hasn’t started a game for Arsenal since their 3-1 loss to West Ham in the League Cup last November.
The Athletic reports that his lacklustre training performances have led to his fall in Arteta’s pecking order. The report also suggests that Vieira’s future at the club may hinge on Emile Smith Rowe’s situation.
Smith Rowe has also had difficulty securing game time, having only started three league games last season. It is unlikely that both will be sold this summer as it would leave Arsenal short in midfield.
Albert Sambi Lokonga, another midfielder, appears set to depart this summer, having recently disclosed that he has already discussed his future with the club following a loan spell at Luton last season.
In an interview with BBC Three Counties Radio, Lokonga shared: “For me, I had a discussion with Arsenal and the conclusion was the best thing for me was to leave the club, so now it’s up to my agent and the club to find something.”
He added: “I still have a contract there, one year plus a one-year option so let’s see what happens. The love I had received has been amazing, it’s been unbelievable and I’ve never seen this kind of support. I will be back here for sure.
“If I’m not playing for Luton I will come for sure to see the guys because I think this was the best decision of my life to come here, to play for this club and I thank Rob (Edwards) for inviting me to join him and be on this journey.”
Source: https://www.express.co.uk/sport/football/1903886/Arsenal-transfer-news-Mikel-Arteta-Fabio-Vieira