After losing reliable centre-back Samir to Watford, Udinese needed defensive reinforcements as soon as possible. First, they signed 24-year-old Filip Benkovic from Leicester City. Now, they are set to secure their second centre-back of the January transfer window in Arsenal’s Pablo Marí.
Pablo Marí Heading to Udinese
Loan Move Completed With Medical Pending
According to Fabrizio Romano, a deal has been reached between Arsenal and the Italian side to send the 28-year-old Spaniard to Serie A. The deal is a half-season loan with no option to buy, and once the medical is completed, the clubs will confirm the transfer. A few days ago, the move was in advanced talks, but now, the transfer is set to go ahead.
A host of South American teams were vying for his signature due to his successful spell with Brazilian side Flamengo in 2019 – including Flamengo themselves – but Marí wanted to stay in Europe.
Pablo Marí Transfer Ideal for All Parties
Since signing for Arsenal in the January 2020 transfer window (first on loan before the Gunners made the move permanent), Marí has struggled to hit the ground running. His first season at the Emirates was derailed by an ankle injury which limited him to 16 appearances in all competitions. However, this season, it appears he has fallen out of favour with Mikel Arteta, starting the Gunners’ first two fixtures of the campaign and not finding league minutes since. Thus, Arsenal do not need his services and could use some differing of his wages.
As mentioned, Udinese lost Samir to Watford and they needed to reinvigorate their backline. Marí provides a centre-back with sufficient top-flight experience and has plenty to prove. With only four central defenders in their squad, despite preferring a back three formation, the necessity for more cover and starting competition is apparent to all.
For Marí himself, he will look at the transfer as an opportunity to prove his worth, whether it be proving himself to Arsenal for next season or showing his value to other clubs around Europe for a potential transfer away. He can expect to play a big role in Udinese’s push for separation at the bottom of the table.
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