Arsenal Insert Rare "Penalty" Clause into Fabio Vieira’s Loan Contract
In a bold move, Arsenal have inserted a rare "penalty" clause into Fabio Vieira’s loan contract with FC Porto. According to reports, the clause stipulates that Porto must play Vieira in at least 50% of their matches, or face a financial penalty. This move is a clear indication of Arsenal’s desire to ensure Vieira gets the playing time he needs to develop his career.
Vieira, 24, is close to rejoining his former club Porto on loan, having left in a permanent transfer two years ago. Despite his talent, the midfielder has struggled to nail down a regular starting spot at the Emirates Stadium, and his recent drop down the pecking order due to the emergence of wonderkid Ethan Nwaneri has only added to his frustration.
The loan deal, which is expected to be completed soon, will see Vieira return to Portugal to get more game time and help Porto’s chances of success in Liga Portugal. Arsenal, on the other hand, will be keeping a close eye on Vieira’s progress and will be hoping that the "penalty" clause will motivate Porto to give him the playing time he needs.
This move is not the first time a Premier League club has inserted a "penalty" clause into a loan deal. In 2016, Liverpool insisted on a 75% of minutes clause in the loan contracts of their young players, a move that led to a number of loan deals being cancelled. The Reds were keen to ensure that their young stars were getting enough playing time, and this move has since been replicated by other clubs.
The inclusion of a "penalty" clause in Vieira’s loan deal is a sign of Arsenal’s willingness to take a proactive approach to managing their squad. By inserting this clause, the Gunners are sending a clear message to Porto that they expect Vieira to get the playing time he needs to develop his career.
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