Barcelona boss Quique Setien has said that the club’s midfielder, Arthur Melo, is being affected by the speculation linking him with Juventus.

Arthur was the first player to be substituted during Barca’s 1-0 win over Athletic Bilbao o Tuesday, and the manager has admitted that the reports that he is joining the Italian giant in exchange for Miralem Pjanic, is taking its toll on his game.

Speaking after the game, the former Real Betis boss sadi if the rumours are true, then they are certainly affecting him.

Setien, who pointed out that he is trying to get the best out of the Brazilian youngster, said the club has been trying to shield from the situation, but it’s beyond their control. Therefore, he said the 24-year-old who joined Barca for 31m euros from Gremio would be talked to as he needs to focus on his game pending the time the transfer window opens.

The European clubs are yet to agree on how the summer transfer will go after coronavirus forced everyone out of action for over 90 days. However, the decision is to be taken by early next month as clubs will be preparing for reinforcement in their respective squads.

Setien, who described the situation as complicated, said the Brazilian must overcome these obstacles to be effective in the deep-lying midfielder role that he is best known for. Although Melo is known for his ball retention abilities, Setien said he would like to see more from him further afield. This is therefore different than what he used to, which was admitted by the coach.

Setien wants him to play further afield by moving between the lines, which is sometimes difficult.

He also noted that Arthur gives the team other options, which is keeping the ball safe. He declared his support for him to up his game as he isn’t standing out at the moment because he believes he can offer more than what he is giving out. The coach wants him to move around when surrounded by opponents in tight spaces.

Written by:  Oladipupo Mojeed