Arsenal preparing surprise transfer for record-breaking defender who Paolo Maldini branded as a ‘special’ talent

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The pressure on Mikel Arteta to strengthen his squad this winter and deliver a marquee signing is growing.

Arsenal lost to Newcastle United at the Emirates on Tuesday night, in what was a meek performance that encapsulated their issues.

Despite managing over 20 shots in the game, the Gunners were unable to find a way through, showcasing their lack of proficiency in the opposition box.

This has sparked calls for Arteta to add a forward reinforcement to his ensemble, with several players beginning to be linked with a switch to N5.

Nico Williams is a target for Arsenal, but they could instead resort to another defensive acquisition in order to bolster their offensive credentials.

Arsenal are targeting Milan defender Theo Hernandez

Arteta has developed a reputation for buying defenders throughout his tenure in the Emirates dugout, with the likes of Ben White, Gabriel Magalhaes, Oleksandr Zinchenko, Takehiro Tomiyasu, Jurrien Timber and Riccardo Calafiori all arriving since the Spaniard took over.

This obsession with strengthening the back end of the pitch has often been criticised by Arsenal fans, who feel the approach has come to the detriment of the attacking side of the squad.

Thus, the Gunners faithful may be left frustrated with Arteta’s latest transfer target.

According to the Sun, Arsenal have identified AC Milan left-back Theo Hernandez as an option for this January.

The Frenchman’s contract at the San Siro expires in the summer of 2026, and there’s reportedly been little progress in regard to a renewal on this front.

Arteta is said to be a huge admirer of Hernandez, and could make a move for him if one of Zinchenko or Jakub Kiwior were to leave.

The marauding full-back has scored more goals for Milan than any other defender in the prestigious club’s history, and was described as ‘special’ by legendary defender Paolo Maldini in the comments of a recent instagram post.

Given the Italian giants are in the midst of a battle for the European places in Serie A, they’re unlikely to sanction a departue for Hernandez, unless they receive a substantial offer, potentially meaning Arsenal would have to stump up a significant sum to land the 27-year-old.

Theo Hernandez would help Arsenal’s attack

Boasting the best defensive record in the Premier League this season, it’s evident that Arsenal’s problems stem from issues at the other end of the pitch.

While Hernandez is a defender by name, the rampaging France international adds significant value and threat in the final third.

The former Real Madrid man has scored 32 goals in 234 appearances for Milan, and is known for his ability to find himself in dangerous positions and execute in high leverage moments.

Gabriel Martinelli has struggled this season, but the Brazilian could be reignited by the introduction of an offensive full-back on his side.

Signing Hernandez would certainly be an unconventional way of strengthening Arsenal’s attack, but he certainly has the capacity to do so.