Jhon Arias admits that reports linking him with a move away from Copa Libertadores champions Fluminense are coming as no surprise with Rangers one of those allegedly interested.
But, before you all get carried away, it’s important to provide a bit of context.
Rangers were linked with Jhon Arias via TEAMtalk late last month. But everything that has emerged since then suggests that Philippe Clement would be advised against holding his breath. Russian giants Zenit St Petersburg have, Globo Esporte say, seen a £10.5 million bid rejected, with Fluminense holding out for closer to £17 million.
As such, Arias is more than a little rich for Rangers’ blood.
Maybe a deal could, could, have been possible with the riches of Champions League football. But, without the UCL to boost Clement’s coffers, the chances of Arias ending up at Ibrox can probably best be described as ‘slim’.
Rangers linked with Jhon Arias
Nonetheless, the rumours are not taking the 26-year-old by surprise, telling Caracol Radio that Fluminense have been preparing for this day for quite a while already.
“(The rumours are) something natural, something normal. As the days and time go by, more offers and proposals will arrive and many more interested clubs will arrive,” the Colombia international explains.
“It is something that the club is aware of and has already been discussed.
“I am focused on finishing the year well and we will have to make decisions, but it doesn’t take the club or me by surprise because it was already something that was expected.”
Arias’ agent confirmed earlier in the week that a number of clubs based in the English Premier League have made their interest known, Wolves, West Ham and Burnley among those linked.
South American expert Tim Vickery, meanwhile, believes the ‘dynamic’ and ‘very versatile’ Arias has been Fluminense’s stand-out performer in 2023, even ahead of the £30 million-rated Liverpool target Andre Trindade.
A Copa Libertadores winner with Fluminense
“I don’t like to pigeonhole myself into x and y league or club,” Arias adds. “I’ll make what I consider to be the best decision for me, football-wise. I am grateful to what Fluminense is and they have given me.
“Today, I cannot talk about whether I am going to stay or leave. When the time comes, I will make the best decision.”
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