World Cup 2018: Uruguay’s Lucas Torreira talks up Arsenal but remains coy over potential summer transfer

Sampdoria president Massimo Ferrero recently said that Torreira had 'left' the Serie A side, sparking speculation of a move to Arsenal

Sampdoria star Lucas Torreira called Arsenal “one of the most important clubs in the world”, but refused to say whether he has penned a deal at the Emirates or not.

The 22-year-old Arsenal target came off the bench during Uruguay’s 1-0 victory over Saudi Arabia in Rostov-On-Don on Thursday, and faced questions about his future after the match, following revelations by Sampdoria president Massimo Ferrero that Torreira had “left” the Serie A side.

“No, I don’t know [if he is an Arsenal player],” Torreira said. “At the moment , the most important thing is playing for my country.

“Arsenal are a good team, one of the most important in the world, but at this moment I am focused on playing for my country.”

Torreira has come off the bench in both of Uruguay’s Group A wins in Russia, and is seen as one of the next generation of talent in the country.

Uruguay’s victory over Saudi Arabia ensured that Oscar Tabarez’s side have now qualified for the last 16 at three consecutive World Cups, with Luis Suarez’s goal, on his 100th appearance for La Celeste, being the difference.

“We know we have very important players who in any moment in a game are dangerous even when there´s very few chances,” Torreira added. “Today it was Luis’s turn to score from a set piece which is an area where we know we are very strong.”