Arsenal are set to invest in their midfield this summer, and they are now clear on what kind of player they will target.
Mikel Arteta wants a third option to complete a dream midfield trio alongside Declan Rice and Martin Odegaard, and with Rice able to play at the base of midfield as well as further forward, there is some flexibility over who they should bring in.
A number eight who could contribute in attacking areas could help Arsenal’s build-up play, but would restrict Rice to a number six role, and it was recently reported that the club would hold internal talks over how to deploy the Englishman next season.
It now appears that they want Rice to continue in the same advanced role he has played in during 2024, which saw Jorginho or Thomas Partey play as the six, and with Partey looking likely to leave, a new defensive midfielder will be targeted.
Arsenal to target defensive midfielder to support Declan Rice
The Athletic have now reported that Arsenal intend to sign a number six as they believe the options on the market to be favourable in that position.
“Arsenal need another midfield player to complement Declan Rice. The indications are that Arsenal are leaning towards adding a No 6 rather than a No 8, as they feel there are more attractive options in the market,” the report stated.
Who could Arsenal target in midfield to support Declan Rice?
One recently linked option is Monaco midfielder Youssouf Fofana, who could be available for a cut-price fee, whilst Martin Zubimendi of Real Sociedad is a long-term target.
It is clear that whoever comes in will have to be a good ball progressor like Jorginho, whilst providing the physicality Partey brought at his best, in order to evade the press.
A younger option in Benfica’s Joao Neves has been linked, but the teenager would come at a high price, and it is unlikely that Arsenal will spend so heavily on an unproven talent.
Amadou Onana of Everton has been linked, but questions remain over his ball-playing ability despite his supreme physicality, and whether he is too similar to Rice to be able to create a well-rounded midfield trio alongside him.