Arsenal talks with VfB Stuttgart for Fabio Vieira are centred on an initial loan with an obligation to buy under certain conditions, according to a report.
Just over a fortnight after reports broke of VfB Stuttgart’s pursuit of Fabio Vieira, a new update has revealed fresh details about the potential deal.
Initial reports confirmed that Stuttgart want Vieira permanently, rather than just on loan, but James McNicholas reports for The Athletic that the transfer might begin with a loan move anyway.
Ongoing talks reportedly centre on a loan with an obligation, which would become active if certain performance-based targets are met. McNicholas adds that a fee of £17m has been discussed.
It’s worth mentioning that Stuttgart might not be the only club in the race for Vieira. John Cross reported for the Mirror on Monday night that Porto are also interested in the midfielder, having taken him on loan last season.
Vieira joined Arsenal from Porto in the first place, so a summer move back again would mark his third spell with the club. It seems Stuttgart are the favourites at the moment though.
Vieira played no part for Arsenal in pre-season, and he wasn’t involved in Sunday’s squad for the Gunners’ Premier League opener against Manchester United.
The midfielder had a strong loan spell back with Porto last season, making 42 appearances as a regular starter for the side. Arsenal will want to get at least a decent return on their initial investment on him.