MLS star confirms Arsenal approach as Gunners seek Mudryk alternative

The Premier League leaders are in the market for another attacker after Chelsea signed Mykhailo Mudryk from Shakhtar Donetsk.

Orlando City winger Facundo Torres has claimed Arsenal approached the MLS club to enquire about him at the backend of last year.

Reports in December had linked the 22-year-old Uruguay international with a winter transfer to Arsenal. While talks were said to have taken place, the Gunners didn’t pursue their interest. Instead, they tried to sign Mykhailo Mudryk, only for the Shakhtar Donetsk star to end up at Chelsea in a €100 million deal.

“Orlando City confirmed to me that there was contact with Arsenal, but then I left for the World Cup and I didn’t want to hear about a potential transfer at that point,” Torres told 90min.

“So the conversation stayed there but now that I am back with the team, we will see where the conversation goes.”

Torres is open to a Premier League move

The former Peñarol winger joined Orlando City last January for a €6.82 million transfer fee. In 40 appearances, he has produced 13 goals and 10 assists in all competitions for the MLS side.

“I would love to play in Europe. It’s a dream I’ve had since I was a kid,” Torres added.

“At the moment I am focused on Orlando City. But La Liga or Premier League would be my targets, and that’s where the rumors are coming from. But yeah, I would absolutely love that.”

Reports have also linked Arsenal with Bayer Leverkusen winger Moussa Diaby and Brighton attacker Leandro Trossard.

Mikel Arteta’s side return to action on Sunday for a Premier League match at home against Manchester United.