Arsenal sale of Lucas Torreira all agreed but midfielder digging his heels in over £12m deal

Arsenal have reportedly agreed to sell Lucas Torreira to Fiorentina for £12million but a hold-up over the midfielder’s wage demands is causing an issue.

The Uruguay international has rejuvenated his career in Italy and become a firm favourite with the Fiorentina supporters after his Serie A loan switch last summer.

Torreira has even scored five goals for La Viola this term. That is more than he managed in 89 games for the Gunners.

And one man who has been hugely impressed with the player is former Fiorentina star David Pizarro.

He said: “I remember that some time ago, I advised (Fiorentina director Daniele) Prade to sign Torreira.

“I was sure he would be ideal for Fiorentina. He is a modern player. I hope he will stay in Florence.

“I like Torreira a lot. He is having a great season after not being able to express himself at his best in the last few years. He is returning to the levels seen at Sampdoria (the club he represented before his £26million move to Arsenal after the 2018 World Cup).”

When he moved to Italy, Torreira had an option-to-buy-clause inserted in his contract. And, given his form this season, Fiorentina have opted to sign the 26-year-old on a permanent basis.

However, personal terms are proving a real sticking point, with the player currently on £65,000-a-week at Arsenal.

The report from Tuttomercatoweb adds that Vincenzo Italiano’s high-flying side have suggested the idea of Torreira taking a pay cut. But that has not gone down particularly well with the player.

It’s also been revealed that Fiorentina are also yet to agree how much commission Torreira’s agent Pablo Bentancur will receive.

Bentancur has, however, indicated that the deal should go through.

He said: “Lucas is happy in Florence and I think