Newcastle United is willing to activate Gabri Veiga’s £33 million release clause, but the La Liga starlet would rather join Premier League leaders Arsenal.
According to Mundo Deportivo, interest in one of Europe’s breakout talents is growing with each surging run and well-taken finish. Celta Vigo may even hold a Veiga-themed Goal of the Season competition in May. Over the last six months or so, the 20-year-old’s strikes have been diverse and high-quality.
There have been long-distance thumpers. Chips that are intuitive. Thunderbolts from the edge of the box. His ninth goal of the season came in Celta’s 3-1 victory over Espanyol just before the international break. There is no midfielder in La Liga who has more.
And, given Arsenal’s proud history of producing fantastic attacking midfielders, Spain U21 international Veiga would be a fitting addition to a squad that has already produced Robert Pires, Cesc Fabregas, and Martin Odegaard.
Gabri Veiga of Celta Vigo is a favorite of Arsenal and Newcastle United.
Meanwhile, Mundo Deportivo believes Veiga would choose Arsenal over Newcastle United, Liverpool, and possibly Real Madrid. Due to their attacking, free-flowing, possession-heavy style, the Gunners, coached by fellow Spaniard Mikel Arteta, appear well-suited to getting the best out of Veiga.
Veiga would add depth to a team that already includes Odegaard, Fabio Vieira, and a returning Emile Smith Rowe.
According to AS, Newcastle United are willing to not only trigger the £33 million release clause in Veiga’s contract, but also offer him a weekly salary of £85,000 at St James’ Park.
Celta Vigo president Carlos Mourino, without naming names, admits that four of the Premier League’s top ten clubs have enquired about the availability of a player on whom the Spaniards may have no choice but to cash in, given the low cost of that release clause.
“We do not want to sell Gabri Veiga,” a straightforward Mourino tells Mundo Deportivo. “However, he will be purchased from us.” And we can’t do anything there. (to stop him leaving).
“There are several groups working behind Gabri. Four of the Premier League’s top ten have inquired about him. Gabri makes the decision; he will play wherever he wants.”
