Arsenal still interested with Sporting Lisbon'a starlet

Reports state Arsenal remain keen to land Sporting forward Tiago Tomas but they’ll have to wait until next summer to seal a deal. The Gunners were associated with the 19-year-old last year after his stellar season with Leoes.

The Portugal Under-21 international enjoyed 16 starts among 30 Primeira Liga matches, scoring three goals. The gifted youngster has a release clause of around €60 million (£52 million).

But back in February, a report said Arsenal technical director Edu was hoping to strike a deal for £20 million. It was thought that the Portuguese side’s financial struggles meant they’d accept less.

However, the Lisbon-born prodigy remained at Estadio Jose Alvalade. Arsenal may not have been able to get him on board but backed manager Mikel Arteta in the transfer window.