Transfer News: Arsenal Not Guaranteed to Sign Higuain as Juventus Look to Pounce

It had seemed for a while now like current Real Madrid forward, Gonzalo Higuain, was about to make a shock move away from Spain to the east side of London, with a transfer to Arsene Wenger's Arsenal seemingly wrapped up.

However, several news outlets, including ESPN and Sky Sports, are reporting that both Arsenal and Juventus are close to agreeing personal terms for the Argentinian.

Speaking about the future of his son's footballing career, Gonzalo's father Jorge said:

"

Nothing has been signed yet but I can assure you there are advanced talks between the clubs.

We wouldn't arrange any personal contract before the clubs agree for the transfer. I'm aware Arsenal has made a strong offer, as well as Juventus.

"

This news has to start to sound the alarm bells for fans of the Gunners, who seemed to be under the impression that they were the only side who had made real progress with the potential move for the 25-year-old.

Juventus have desperately needed a world-class striker for a while now, and this move would suit both player and club perfectly.

That's not to say that the same doesn't apply in regards to Higuain and Arsenal however, with the Gunners looking to strengthen on the strike force that was badly damaged with the departure of Robin van Persie to Manchester United last summer.

In an interview with the Spanish newspaper Marca, Higuain stated:

"

No deal will be signed until one of the interested clubs reaches an agreement with Real Madrid.

I'm sure that both Arsenal and Juventus will table serious bids.

"

So it appears as though Arsenal have a good old fashioned transfer war on their hands to see if they can lure Higuain to the club ahead of the Italian champions.

This bump in the road after being seemingly so close to getting their man is exactly what Arsenal didn't want at this stage of the summer.

The signing of Higuain would have been a strong foundation to build upon further and would have laid a real benchmark to other English sides about Arsenal's intentions this coming year.

The news isn't all doom and gloom though. It would appear right now as if Arsenal have just as good a chance as the Old Lady of Football to secure the Argentinian's services for the 2013-14 campaign. 

So long as they cough up enough cash, then Arsene Wenger's men should still be the favorites to bring Higuain to the Emirates Stadium this summer.

Follow me on Twitter: @Eddie_Edmonds