Arsenal transfer news: Gunners dealt major blow after Roma reportedly ‘secure deal’ for Sevilla midfielder Steven N’Zonzi
The 29-year-old could be heading to the Serie A side in a deal worth over £22million, but Italians must sell Maxime Gonalons first
UNAI EMERY has been dealt a major blow in his quest to be reunited with Steven N'Zonzi after Roma secured a deal with Sevilla, according to reports.
The Arsenal boss - who worked with the French World Cup winner at the La Liga club - was believed to be keen on bringing the midfielder to the Emirates.
But according to sports journalist Mootaz Chehade, the Serie A outfit have agreed a transfer with the Spanish side in a deal worth over £22million.
However, they must sell ex-Lyon ace Maxime Gonalons before they can bring N'Zonzi to the Stadio Olimpico.
He tweeted: "AS Roma have secured a deal with Sevilla for Steven N'Zonzi for €25million (£22m) plus bonuses, but Maxime Gonalons has to leave first."
It had been reported that Barcelona were eyeing up a move for the former Blackburn star, after a deal to bring Paris Saint-Germain ace Adrien Rabiot to the Nou Camp hit a snag.
The 29-year-old has enjoyed three seasons with Sevilla since joining from Stoke in 2015 - helping the club to the Europa League in his opening campaign.
He has racked up 136 appearances in all competitions for Pablo Machin's side - netting on eight occasions.
Arsenal were told to cough up £35m if they wanted to land the Les Bleus maestro, but balked at the offer - leading N'Zonzi to demand a move away.
The Gunners have already brought central midfielders Lucas Torreira and Matteo Guendouzi - the latter shining under Emery during pre-season.
