Arsenal have reportedly pulled out of the race to sign Sassuolo midfielder Manuel Locatelli this summer, having previously been in pole position to capture the Italian's signature.
Mikel Arteta is said to be keen to find a new partner for Thomas Partey at the base of midfield, leading him to reportedly approach Sassuolo regarding Locatelli, who is currently playing for Italy at Euro 2020.
The Gunners remained in fierce competition for the capture of the 23-year-old, with Italian giants Juventus also keen to add the midfielder to their ranks.
According to Tuttosport, Locatelli has stated that the Old Lady would be his preferred move to stay in his home country, as opposed to a move to North London.
With the arrival of Albert Sambi Lokonga said to be imminent, the Gunners have reportedly given up their pursuit of the Italian midfielder after falling behind Juventus in the pecking order for his signature.
Such an advancement may see 21-year-old Lokonga trusted with regular football in the midfield this season, should Arteta fail to find another target this summer.
Sam Varley
