Arsenal may not be finished with their transfer incomings, as they are reportedly eyeing up another defensive midfielder if a big sale can be made.
That’s according to journalist Miguel Delaney, who has reported in The Independent that Arsenal will aim to make a “significant” sale, with Folarin Balogun a player who could leave for a huge fee, and that a new number six will be targeted if this can be done.
Arsenal have already signed Declan Rice, Jurrien Timber and Kai Havertz this summer, with David Raya expected to follow in what has been an excellent window in terms of recruitment.
However, it now seems that Arsenal want to add another midfielder if they can shift Balogun, with Arteta reportedly seeking more variety in his midfield options.
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This is somewhat surprising, given that Arsenal now have Rice, Thomas Partey and Jorginho as high-level defensive midfield options.
Who could Arsenal target?
Arsenal have previously registered interest in Moises Caicedo of Brighton and Romeo Lavia of Southampton, but both players are currently the subject of offers from Chelsea and Liverpool.
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Given that Arsenal have already spent over £200m in this window with little income from sales, it would be surprising if there was another big move in the works.
There have previously been links with Gremio’s Bitello, who can play in a number of positions including as a defensive midfielder, and this could be a deal to watch.
Targeting a pure defensive midfielder would be very surprising given the current options, and with Arsenal’s midfield now looking particularly strong, any arrival would be unlikely to arrive as an immediate starter.
If a sale for Balogun can be agreed then perhaps Arsenal may seek out another opportunity to strengthen if one appears on the market, but there will be little surprise if Arteta chooses to proceed with the squad he now has at his disposal.