Ajax left-back Nicolas Tagliafico has revealed his determination to play in the Premier League, handing Arsenal a huge boost in their pursuit of the defender.
Tagliafico has established himself as a vital part of Ajax's success since joining the club last season, attracting interest from some of Europe's biggest clubs. Arsenal have been linked with the 26-year-old for many months, given the Gunners' lack of long-term options in the position.
Speaking to The Mirror, Tagliafico made no secret of his desire to make the switch to the Premier League in the near future.
He said: “I think in the summer it could be a natural time to take the step. But I try not to think about taking that step just yet because we have many important games to focus on.
“Yes, it’s flattering because I think it’s the most competitive league. When you are a child, the target is to come to Europe and play in a top league like the Premier League. I came to Ajax because of the philosophy, the style of football and the club.
“I could have gone to Betis in Spain, but I knew that at Ajax I would learn and improve which made it the best step – and it’s happened as I predicted.
“It was the perfect moment to come to Europe, it was late because I was 25, it’s late for a player. It was tough to take the decision, but I needed to take a risk."
After joining Ajax in January 2018, Tagliafico has gone on to make 51 appearances in all competitions, registering six goals and eight assists. His form has also seen him cement a regular place in the Argentinian national team, and he started each of his country's four games at last summer's World Cup.
He has been linked with a move to Arsenal as the potential long-term replacement for the 33-year-old Nacho Monreal, who finds himself out of contract in the summer. The Gunners still have Sead Kolasinac, but Unai Emery is keen to add another option in the position.
Source : 90min