In an interview with Globo Esporte. The agency of rumoured Arsenal and West Ham United target Danilo ruled out a January move away from Palmeiras. Despite admitting interest from Premier League strugglers Watford.
Danilo, 20, was expected to stay with Palmeiras until February’s Club World Cup. After playing a key role in the club’s second consecutive Copa Libertadores triumph. Arsenal has submitted a £21 million proposal, according to Brazilian daily Esportes.
Due to the departure of Ainsley Maitland-Niles and the bans of Granit Xhaka and Thomas Partey. Mikel Arteta’s erratic side has been left worryingly short in central midfield. But West Ham is keen on signing him.
However, Danilo is adamant about staying at Palmeiras ahead of the Club World Cup next month. This is a deal that will have to be put on hold for the time being.
CAN ARSENAL OR WEST HAM Sign him up?
“With the tremendous effort done by (the coaching staff). He has matured a lot as a professional athlete in these two years,” Thiago Sales reveals.
“Danilo is at ease. He makes an effort to listen and concentrate on his work. And we wish him luck in the Club World Cup. He has no intention of leaving Palmeiras for West Ham at this time. There is no real evidence, only supposition.
“We’re overjoyed, and Palmeiras is as well.”
One Premier League club has shown ‘solid’ interest in Sales’ highly-rated client, he admits. Watford, not Arsenal or West Ham, is the team with no management and is plummeting like a stone.
“Clubs are always looking for information,” Sales continues. “Watford had the most concrete (interest).”
While Danilo has an £86 million release clause in his contract which will push away West Ham. While he plays as a deep-lying central midfielder who isn’t hesitant to put his body on the line. Palmeiras will accept a considerably lower price for their prized asset when the time comes. However, it remains to be seen whether a £20 million bid will suffice.
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