Arsenal scout Luis Boa Morte was a surprising presence for Arouca’s match against Leixoes at the weekend, according to reports in Portugal.
Tuesday’s O Jogo writes that the Arsenal representative was watching left-back Derick Poloni.
The Brazilian 24-year-old has made 35 appearances for Leixoes this season, in his first campaign with the club. He previously played for Anadia, in the third division of Portuguese football.
What’s surprising is that Boa Morte would go to watch the second division match in the first place. Perhaps Arsenal see Poloni as a hidden gem about to burst onto the scene at the top level. He certainly wouldn’t cost the club very much, as he only has a contract until 2019, and his market value is £225k (via transfermarkt).
Plus, left-back is indeed reportedly one of the four positions Sven Mislintat wants to buy in this summer. The head of recruitment believes the club need a long-term replacement for Nacho Monreal. With the way the Spaniard has played this season, and his frequent injuries, it’s hard to argue with that assessment.
Poloni has also played as a left-midfielder/winger this season, so that could also count in his favour. Arsenal love their full-backs to bomb up the pitch after all.
The match ended 2-2, and it remains to be seen what Boa Morte took away from it.