Arsenal will look to bolster their midfield contingent in the upcoming summer transfer window with three targets now identified.
Mikel Arteta needs to strengthen his Arsenal ranks in the middle of the park this summer.
In Declan Rice and club captain Martin Odegaard, two thirds of the Gunners’ midfield trio are already nailed down for the foreseeable future.
However, with Jorginho and Thomas Partey both in the twilight years of their careers, there is room for another regular starter to be brought into the midfield unit.
Whilst Jorginho has recently signed a new Arsenal contract, he has now reached a stage in his career where he struggles to start matches week in, week out. Meanwhile, Arsenal must now seriously consider moving on from Partey. Due to his recurrent injury issues, the Ghanaian simply cannot be relied upon to be fit and available when called upon.
Arsenal need to bring in a midfielder who can complement Rice. The former West Ham United man has shown his versatility this season, and proven that he can shine as both a No. 6 and as a No. 8. Arteta must focus his efforts on finding a player who is similarly versatile, who would be able to swap and interchange roles with Rice within matches.
Fabrizio Romano names three Arsenal midfield targets
Transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano has now named three midfield targets who are currently being considered by the North London club.
Speaking on the ARLS Podcast, he said: “I see Arsenal signing an important midfielder in this summer transfer window. For example, Zubimendi is a player they like.
“Onana at Everton is one of them. Also Douglas Luiz from Aston Villa. They are some players that they really appreciate.”
Which midfielder will Arsenal make their top target?
Arsenal are known to be considering triggering Martin Zubimendi’s release clause. Meanwhile, Everton may need to cash in on Amadou Onana to alleviate their own financial concerns.
Douglas Luiz is admired by Arteta, but could prove tricky to prise away from Villa Park, as Unai Emery’s side have just secured Champions League qualification.
It will be fascinating to see which of these three targets Arsenal prioritise a pursuit of in the off-season, or if another potential acquisition in this part of the pitch catches their eye.
Arsenal have been urged to swoop for Barcelona star Frenkie de Jong. On top of that, Arteta is rumoured to be keen on Newcastle United ace Bruno Guimaraes.