Emiliano Buendia’s priority is to join Arsenal over Aston Villa, according to journalist Ekrem Konur.

The Lowdown: Big money bids submitted

Both Villa and the Gunners appear to be battling it out for the Norwich City star, with the Argentine seemingly certain to leave Carrow Road this summer.

Recent reports from The Sun suggested that both clubs have submitted bids worth £30m-plus, however, the Canaries are holding out for a bidding war between the two sides which could take a deal closer to £40m.

Of course, Buendia will have a say on his next destination, and his preference has now been shared.

The Latest: Buendia fancies Arsenal move

According to Konur, both clubs have lodged formal bids for the 24-year-old.

He ended his social media post with a huge blow to Villa’s chances of securing Buendia’s services though, confirming ‘the player’s priority is Arsenal’.

The Verdict: Time for Villa to look elsewhere?

If Villa are aware of Buendia’s preferred switch to north London, we feel they should be making checks with alternative options.

One man who they may well turn to is West Brom’s Matheus Pereira.

Reports have suggested the Baggies have told the Brazilian he can leave the club this summer for the right price believed to be in the region of £15m.

Villa don’t rate Pereira as highly as Buendia, however, for half the price, the Baggies man could be a smart signing, especially considering he chipped in with 11 goals and six assists in a struggling West Brom side last season.

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