Arsenal staff believe two transfer targets are ‘the most interesting’ in the world

Add as preferred source on Google

Transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano has now revealed what Arsenal really think of Douglas Luiz and Martin Zubimendi.

Arsenal have been credited with an interest in Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi. Aston Villa star Douglas Luiz has also been called Mikel Arteta’s “dream” January signing. 

A midfield overhaul is surely on the horizon for the north London club. Whilst Declan Rice has been a sensation since his arrival at the Emirates Stadium in the recent summer transfer window, only he really represents the Gunners’ long-term future in that part of the pitch.

Meanwhile, Thomas Partey, Jorginho, and Mohamed Elneny are all approaching the latter stages of their careers. Partey can simply no longer be relied upon due to his persistent injury issues, Jorginho’s contract situation remains up in the air, and Elneny is not of the required standard for the level Arsenal are aiming to achieve.

As such, fresh blood is required in the middle of the park. Luiz has the advantage of having already proven his ability to shine in the Premier League. However, Aston Villa would surely be reluctant to let the Brazilian go.

Zubimendi, meanwhile, has been consistently impressive in La Liga for a number of years now. The 24-year-old Spain international may well be open to testing his mettle in the top flight of English football. 

Fabrizio Romano shares what Arsenal staff think of Douglas Luiz and Martin Zubimendi

Fabrizio Romano has now confirmed that Arsenal are sincere admirers of both players. Speaking on Kick, the reporter said, “Arsenal have liked Zubimendi for a long time. There are players like Zubimendi, like Pedro Neto and like Douglas Luiz that Arsenal have always appreciated.”

“Arsenal have negotiated for some of them in different moments. Arsenal’s strategy is regular, if they like a player they will keep following that player and they can return, this is the case for Zubimendi because Zubimendi is super appreciated by Arsenal.”

“People at the club think that Zubimendi and Douglas Luiz are among the most interesting midfielders in the world at the moment.”

Clearly, Arteta would be delighted to add either, or perhaps even both, players to his ranks. The arrival of either Luiz or Zubimendi would immediately raise the overall level of his midfield contingent.

It will also be difficult for the Gunners to successfully strike a deal for either player in the current January transfer window, though. Arsenal only have a limited budget at their disposal, and arguably have a more pressing need to invest elsewhere on the pitch. 

The long-term injury sustained by Jurrien Timber, and Takehiro Tomiyasu’s own patchy fitness record and imminent departure for the Asia Cup suggests that defensive reinforcements are required. Equally, the profligacy of Gabriel Jesus and Eddie Nketiah arguably means that signing a new striker ought to be the priority.