It's not every day a manager openly speaks about how they want their star players to purposely put on a show for potential suitors, but that's exactly what former Swansea boss Carlos Carvalhal has done. Speaking to the press ahead of tonight's Europa League quarter-final clash against Rangers, the current SC Braga manager admitted that he wants his players to shine in front of the Premier League's big guns ahead of potential transfer moves.
Arsenal have previously been linked with the side's captain, Ricardo Horta. Meanwhile, Manchester United and Liverpool are reportedly admirers of central defender David Carmo and Carvalhal hopes that his stars can further showcase their quality over the two legs.
"We've got the youngest team left in the Europa League," he said. "We have a lot of boys with very good quality. This question is put to me and I understand, but it also goes for our players. David Carmo was linked last year with Liverpool. We have a lot of talented players aged 17, 18, 19 who want to play in England.
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"They now have a good opportunity to show their abilities to the clubs across the world. The clubs will look to the manager but also the players."
football.london understands Arsenal are planning a significant financial outlay this summer which is backed by owner Stan Kroenke. And with forwards, midfielders and defenders all said to be on Mikel Arteta's shopping list, perhaps Edu should take Carvalhal's hint by completing some window shopping.
The Gunners could also see a number of players leave including Nicolas Pepe, who has struggled for game time this season. If the Ivorian does indeed depart, then a replacement is likely going to be required. The aforementioned Horta could be viewed as a reasonably priced option, with Transfermarkt valuing him at £18m.
The 27-year-old possesses leadership qualities that Arteta loves his players to have, in addition to versatility across the frontline. Playing on either wing, as a second striker and even attacking midfielder, Horta has racked up an impressive 19 goals and 9 assists so far this season.
In fact, the Portuguese international has found the back of the net 15 or more times over the last three campaigns, the highest being 24 during the 2019/20 season, highlighting just how consistent he is in front of goal. With there likely to be a major striker reshuffle taking place this summer due to the expiring contracts of Alexandre Lacazette and Eddie Nketiah, goalscoring wingers will be crucial as Arteta finds a new formula to bring his attack to life.
