“I had a conversation with Andrea Berta following the Champions League game…” — South American star opens up about his readiness to join Arsenal on one condition after recent speculation. The player sees Arsenal as the perfect destination but insists he’ll only make the move if Mikel Arteta can promise him one key thing.

One of South America’s brightest footballing talents has finally broken his silence amid weeks of speculation linking him with a high-profile move to Arsenal. In a revealing interview with a leading South American media outlet, the player confirmed his willingness to join the North London giants — but made it abundantly clear that his move hinges on a single non-negotiable condition.

“I had a conversation with Andrea Berta following the Champions League game,” the player admitted. The dialogue reportedly took place shortly after Atlético Madrid’s elimination from Europe’s elite tournament. While the player currently remains unnamed due to contractual obligations, his comments have sent shockwaves through the transfer market.

The heart of his condition lies with Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta. According to sources close to the player, he is only willing to make the switch to the Premier League if Arteta can guarantee him a regular role in his preferred position — as a central attacking midfielder. This demand underlines the player’s ambitions not just to be part of the squad, but to become a cornerstone of the team’s attacking structure.

In his own words, the South American talent described Arsenal as “an exciting project” and praised Arteta’s tactical philosophy. “I respect Arteta a lot. What he’s done at Arsenal is admirable, and I see the club as a perfect place to grow,” he said. “But I need to feel like I’m coming in as an important piece, not just a rotation option.”

The statement reveals a player who is not only confident in his abilities but also deeply mindful of his development. At 23, the attacking midfielder has already made a name for himself with dazzling performances in La Liga and on European nights. His creativity, flair, and decision-making have turned him into a fan favorite, and his profile aligns with what Arsenal have been building under Arteta.

Arsenal have reportedly scouted the player extensively for over a year, with sporting director Edu and newly-appointed director Andrea Berta both convinced of his potential. The player’s versatility — capable of functioning in both central and wide attacking roles — adds to his value, but it’s that central playmaker role he’s set on claiming.

However, there’s a potential dilemma brewing at the Emirates. With Martin Ødegaard already established as the team’s primary creator in midfield, and Emile Smith Rowe also capable of playing in similar areas, accommodating another central option may disrupt Arteta’s existing setup — unless a reshuffle or player exit takes place.

That tactical uncertainty is exactly why the player wants clarity before signing any contract. “I don’t want to be shifted around. I know where I can make the most impact, and that’s where I want to play,” he reportedly told a source close to the negotiations.

While the identity of the player remains confidential, speculation across fan forums and media circles is pointing toward a handful of South American stars who fit the description — including names from Brazil and Argentina currently plying their trade in Spain.

Negotiations between Arsenal and the player’s current club are said to be in preliminary stages. Although personal terms are not expected to be a major hurdle, the sticking point remains Arteta’s willingness to accommodate the player’s positional demands.

Inside sources at Arsenal suggest Arteta is intrigued by the idea of adding another creative option, particularly one who brings a different dynamic compared to Ødegaard’s tempo-setting style. However, he remains cautious about overloading certain positions and potentially upsetting the team balance.

Still, the urgency to bolster the squad ahead of the 2025/26 campaign is growing. Following a season that saw Arsenal fall just short in both the Premier League and Champions League, the pressure is on to strengthen key areas — and the addition of this South American star could add the attacking depth they lacked at crucial moments last term.

What makes this potential transfer particularly unique is the assertiveness of the player himself. While many footballers leave such decisions entirely in the hands of agents, this individual is taking a more proactive role — engaging in direct conversations and setting the tone for his career path.

“I’m not coming to sit on the bench. I’m coming to win. I need that clarity before I take the next step,” he reportedly told his entourage. That mindset has impressed Arsenal’s top brass, even as they carefully weigh the impact his arrival would have on squad dynamics.

In the coming weeks, Arsenal are expected to engage in more detailed talks with the player’s representatives. A final decision may rest on whether Arteta can make tactical adjustments or part ways with another attacking midfielder to create space in the team.

For Arsenal fans, this development adds to the excitement of a summer window that is already brimming with promise. With Arteta backed to strengthen key areas, landing a top South American talent with Champions League experience would be another major step forward.

Yet, the entire deal may hinge on that one simple yet vital assurance — that he will be trusted, valued, and given the platform to shine.

Until then, the Gunners faithful will have to wait patiently as Arsenal look to seal what could be one of the most intriguing transfers of the summer.