Arsenal Transfer News: Sebastian Giovinco Tipped to Spark Battle with Spurs

Out-of-favour Juventus attacker Sebastian Giovinco may become the subject of a north London battle in January, as Arsenal and Tottenham vie to sign the 27-year-old forward, according to reports in the Italian press.

Giovinco continues to struggle with a lack of playing time in Turin, a recurring feature of his career-long association with the Bianconeri. He was a member of Juventus' youth ranks before breaking into the first team back in 2008, but the supporting striker has never truly offered staying power in the Serie A side's starting line-up.

Tuttosport (via talkSPORT) reports that Juve are "willing to offload" the player who has allegedly captured the interest of both Arsenal and Spurs. It is said Juventus "had previously been unwilling to sell" the rotational attacker, but this "stance has now changed," per talkSPORT's article.

Andrea D'Amico, Giovinco's agent, confirmed interest from the Premier League during the summer. His modest comments were reported by Calcionews24.com (via Ben Jefferson of the Daily Express):

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I am not surprised that Arsenal and Tottenham are being linked, considering the quality of Arsene Wenger's choices and the fine level of Tottenham's squad. However, they are not the only clubs. Olympiakos, Monaco and Liverpool? There are many other teams, as Giovinco is appreciated everywhere.

"

Giovinco made just six starts and 11 substitute appearances during Juventus' run to the title last season, per WhoScored.com. He netted twice and provided one assist, while he failed to score during the side's Champions League run.

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During the 2012-13 campaign, Giovinco scored seven Serie A goals in 23 starts and eight displays from the bench, but he once again failed to add his name to the scoresheet in Europe.

His best return during the Italian domestic season currently stands at his impressive tally of 15 goals and 11 assists posted across 36 starts for Parma in 2011-12. The speedy player can certainly become an important asset to Juventus if he is afforded an unbroken run in the side, but this appears highly unlikely now that new manager Massimiliano Allegri is in charge.

Allegri opted to improve his attacking options with the signing of Alvaro Morata from Real Madrid this summer. With Fernando Llorente and Carlos Tevez already at the club, the decision to sign Kingsley Coman on a free transfer has also raised questions over Giovinco's long-term future. The former Paris Saint-Germain youngster fulfils similar roles to the little Italian who has needed a fresh start for some time.

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Giovinco has the attributes to perform well in England. He's energetic, skilful in possession and isn't afraid to offer a defensive outlet, although the physicality of the Premier League may take some adjusting to.

He would slot in behind Arsenal's forward line and could make runs to support the lone striker in Arsene Wenger's current system. Aaron Ramsey and Alexis Sanchez fulfil similar roles at the Emirates, while Danny Welbeck's arrival could see the Gunners understandably end any interest in the player.

Giovinco is the type of player who would also fit into Mauricio Pochettino's Spurs side. The Argentinian manager drills his stars into contributing across every facet of the pitch by making supporting runs for their team-mates who are in possession.

Nacer Chadli's effectiveness has improved massively alongside this added urgency, as Pochettino once again highlights he can get the best out of players who are failing to hit their potential.

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At his age, Giovinco should be heading to the peak of his career. It's difficult to suggest he would be able to break into either Premier League club right away, but it would be smart to provide himself with an opportunity at making it away from the relative comfort of Juventus' bench. 

He remains unused, unneeded and overlooked in Italy, a huge waste for such a naturally talented footballer. With the right move, his career could ignite in an instant.