Arsenal sporting director Edu must focus the club’s resources on trying to strike a deal for one midfield transfer target.
Arsenal are keen to bolster their midfield options in the upcoming summer transfer window.
Mikel Arteta is aware that reinforcements are needed in the middle of the park. Despite Jorginho having just signed a new contract, he is now a player, due to his age, that can’t be relied upon to start matches week in, week out next season.
Equally, Arsenal must now seriously consider cutting ties with Thomas Partey. The 30-year-old is plagued by injuries and cannot be relied upon to remain fit and available for any extended period. Even if the Ghanaian remains on the books at the Emirates Stadium, he cannot be a central figure in Arteta’s plans for next season.
More support needs to be brought in for Declan Rice. Ideally, a player who matches the former West Ham United man’s versatility, and ability to play as both a No. 6 and a No. 8. This kind of acquisition would allow the manager to decided where to deploy Rice on a game-by-game basis, tailored to the opposition Arsenal come up against.
Edu must make huge effort to bring Douglas Luiz to Arsenal
Arsenal are currently eyeing up three midfield targets ahead of the summer transfer window being declared open. Whilst Real Sociedad star Martin Zubimendi and Amadou Onana of Everton are both also shortlisted, Douglas Luiz ought to be the Gunners’ top target.
It will not be easy to prise the Brazilian away from Villa Park. Aston Villa have put an £85 million price tag on Luiz, and on top of that, Unai Emery’s side have just confirmed their qualification for next season’s Champions League, meaning the 26-year-old will still get the chance to compete in Europe’s elite club competition should he remain with the Midlands outfit.
Zubimendi would be a cheaper option at £52 million. Everton are also only thought to want £60 million for Onana. However, both ought to be considered secondary targets behind Luiz.
Edu will certainly have to push the boat out to get a deal for his compatriot done. However, Arsenal have shown a willingness to spend big on statement signings in recent years. For instance, last summer they splashed out a club-record £105 million fee to secure the services of Rice.
Why Douglas Luiz would be a perfect fit for Arsenal
Another such investment will need to be made again this time around in order to maintain the club’s recent progress. This summer is not the time to stand still, and Luiz can help to take Arsenal forward.
Luiz has been described as a “dream” signing for Arteta and Edu in the past, and for good reason. The 13-cap Brazil international has plenty of Premier League experience, and regularly impresses for Aston Villa.
He is a tenacious and combative presence in the middle of the park, but technically gifted and an excellent passer of the ball. He also has an eye for goal, and like Rice, can slot in comfortably at the base of the midfield or in a more advanced role.
