Arsenal now dealt January setback over £60m target, Edu eyeing alternatives

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Arsenal are still keen to sign Aston Villa midfielder Douglas Luiz.

According to 90min, Douglas Luiz remains a top target for Arsenal. However, Aston Villa are extremely reluctant to part with the midfielder and will not even “entertain offers” for the player in the upcoming January transfer window.

Even if the Midlands outfit were open to a sale, Luiz wouldn’t come to the Emirates Stadium cheaply. The Villans value the 25-year-old at around £60 million, as reported by Football365.

The Brazilian would certainly be a smart addition to Mikel Arteta’s squad. The player is a battling, tenacious presence in the middle of the park, but also possesses plenty of technical quality, and can even contribute in the final third. 

With the likes of Thomas Partey, Jorginho, and Mohamed Elneny all approaching the end of their playing days, a midfield revamp is certainly on the horizon for Arsenal.

Arsenal sporting director Edu still looking beyond Douglas Luiz

One thing that could help the Gunners get a deal for Luiz over the line is the fact that he has wanted to join the north London club in the past.

However, as per the aforementioned 90min report, Arsenal sporting director Edu is not taking any chances and is actively looking into some alternative midfield targets.

These other options include Valencia midfielder Javi Guerra, who boasts “enormous potential.”

Jurrien Timber’s brother Quinten Timber, who currently plies his trade for Feyenoord, is also on the Arsenal shortlist. As is 18-year-old Arthur Vermeeren.

However, given Arteta’s preference for signing players with Premier League experience, Luiz is still likely to be the Gunner’s primary target.

There is an argument, though, that midfield reinforcements are not what Arsenal should be focusing on sourcing in the winter transfer window. The need for an elite-level striker is more pressing, with the club’s Premier League title ambitions in mind. As is the need to find a player who can provide adequate competition and back up for Bukayo Saka.