Report: Augsburg target captain of Arsenal Juniors
Seemingly not content with six new January signings, FC Augsburg are reportedly interested in bringing in Arsenal U21 captain Matt Smith ahead of tomorrow's deadline. This is reported by Britain's "The Sun" tabloid.
After completing their sixth winter signing earlier in the day, the Bavarian Swabians of Germany's Fuggerstadt are apparently in the mood for more. Commenting on the deal that brought Nathanaël Mbuku to FC Augsburg, FCA sporting director Stefan Reuter noted that he and his staff were happy to "strike while the iron is hot."
There may yet be another iron to strike if Daniel Cutts of Britain's "The Sun" tabloid is to be believed. Cutts reports that Augsburg are looking to outpace several EFL Championship sides for the services of Arsenal U21 captain Matt Smith. The 22-year-old midfielder has seen a rise in his profile following successful loan stints with Swindon Town, Charlton Athletic, and Doncaster Rovers.
No German sources corroborate the rumor as of yet. Augsburg - enjoying some murky financial backing from U.S. investor group Boldt Football Holdings - have not been shy about shelling out money in the last three transfer windows. Total outlays this January alone amount to over €4 million. Counting the summer, the FCA operates with an estimated negative transfer balance of nearly €10 million.
Understand #Arsenal star Matt Smith is wanted by German side Augsburg along with a number of Championship sides ahead of deadline day, including QPR. #AFC willing to let him go with hopes of another midfielder coming in. Could be lots of movement in that area. @TheSunFootball
— Daniel Cutts (@Journo_Slash) January 30, 2023