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What’s the rumour?
As per reports from The Metro, Arsenal have initiated talks with Nice midfielder Jean-Michael Seri.
In case you didn't know...
An Ivory Coast international, Seri made the switch to Nice in 2015. He has been an integral part of their system since and has enjoyed another brilliant season with the French outfit. He has played 122 games for the club and has been involved in 38 goals.
He is an all-action midfielder and is primarily deployed as a defensive midfielder. He is good with the ball at his feet and has an eye for defence-splitting through balls from deeper areas as well.
His current contract with Nice runs out in 2019 and is valued at £40 million as per the report.
The heart of the matter
Following the departure of Arsene Wenger, wholesale changes are expected at the club. The Arsenal board have identified their midfield as an area that needs reinforcements and thus are looking at possible targets.
They have turned their attention to Seri who has enjoyed a good season with Nice, helping them to a sixth-placed finish. The player is a target for London rivals Chelsea as well and we may well see a tug of war for the player between the two clubs.
The 26-year-old has played 42 games for Nice this season, scoring twice and setting up 10 goals.
Rumour rating/probability - 7/10
Many sources including some credible outlets are reporting about Seri's possible departure. His destination is still a question mark and things will get clearer in the coming weeks.
Video: Seri in action for Nice
Author’s take
Seri will be a very good buy as he is in top form at the moment and is also at the right age to make a move to a bigger club. Both Arsenal and Chelsea will be looking to strengthen their midfield and Seri can add instant quality to either team.
