Wilshere says Richarlison would NOT get in Aesenal first XI

paid £50 million ($61 million) for

forward Richarlison, but former

Arsenal

midfielder

Jack Wilshere

says the Brazilian player would have only been a backup in north London.

Antonio Conte is adding to Spurs' team after they beat their rivals to finish fourth in the Premier League and get into the Champions League last season.

was once said to be of interest to the Gunners, but Wilshere has said that the 25-year-old South American wouldn't make Mikel Arteta's starting XI at Emirates Stadium. Wilshere said of Richarlison's move to Spurs on talkSPORT, "I think he makes the team better. He gives them something different."

"I wouldn't say I'm heartbroken that he didn't sign with Arsenal. He's 25, so not young. At some point, you'll have to do something with that potential, but to be fair, if anyone can do it, it's Conte.

"As an Arsenal fan, I wouldn't say I'm devastated, but he could be worth keeping an eye on. He could be perfect." When asked if he would have liked the Brazilian player at Arsenal, Wilshere said, "Yeah, but I don't think he makes the XI."

"He'd try for it and be a good team member, but I don't think he makes the starting lineup." Richarlison can play as a central striker, but the Gunners already have Eddie Nketiah for that position. They are about to sign Gabriel Jesus from

Manchester City

for £45 million (about $54 million).

Arteta can start England's Bukayo Saka on either wing because he is left-footed and can play with either foot. Gabriel Martinelli, another Brazilian, is also a choice. Martin Odegaard and Emile Smith Rowe add more creativity.

Richarlison would have given them more depth, especially since there are still questions about how long Nicolas Pepe will stay in north London. However, there have been rumors that Arsenal is looking for other options on the wing since it seems they missed out on Leeds star Raphinha, who went to London rivals Chelsea.

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