Arsenal view ‘perfect player’ as top priority despite ‘impossible’ transfer claim

Add as preferred source on Google

Arsenal continue to be linked with Aston Villa midfielder Douglas Luiz, in what feels like a highly unlikely move.

Aston Villa are flying high in the Premier League under former Arsenal boss Unai Emery, and could even leapfrog the Gunners this weekend depending on how Mikel Arteta’s side fare against Liverpool.

Luiz has been a standout player for Villa this season, and their stance is that he is not for sale. With Villa currently near Arsenal in the league, it is tough to see them agreeing to sell a key player to a rival in the winter window.

Despite a January deal recently being deemed as virtually “impossible,” Fabrizio Romano has now claimed that Luiz is still Arsenal’s top midfield target ahead of January.

Fabrizio Romano gives Douglas Luiz update amid Arsenal interest

Arsenal have been linked with a host of midfielders, including Joao Palhinha of Fulham, as alternatives to Luiz, but despite this, it seems that Arteta and Edu Gaspar are heavily keen on the Brazilian.

“Douglas Luiz remains Arsenal fav option as midfielder, he’s considered the perfect player. …but Aston Villa remain on their position as they don’t want to sell Douglas,” Romano posted on X.

“No changes since November, yet.”

In November it emerged that Luiz was top of Arsenal’s list, as they aim to add a midfielder to the squad following Thomas Partey’s injury problems, and despite other targets emerging including Andre from Fluminense, perhaps indicating that Arsenal would look elsewhere, Luiz still appears to be the main target.

Why do Arsenal think Douglas Luiz is perfect?

If Arsenal are to sign a big-money midfielder in January, it would likely be to replace Partey, who has struggled with injuries all season.

Declan Rice has been outstanding at both the base of midfield and further forward, whilst Kai Havertz has improved in recent games, adding goals to his performances.

The type of midfielder Arsenal need is perhaps someone who can both cover for Rice, and play alongside him. With Rice excelling defensively, helping Arsenal build the best back line in the Premier League, someone well-rounded who can add physicality, as well as output, could be of appeal.

Luiz ranks superbly among his peers when it comes to goals, with five strikes in the Premier League this season, whilst he also ranks highly for shots and shot-creating actions, as per FBRef.

Perhaps he is seen as someone who can help Arsenal in tough away trips, whilst also adding goals alongside Martin Odegaard’s creativity and Rice’s ability to win the ball back high up the pitch.

A deal does look highly unlikely, and Arsenal will probably have to find another midfielder in January, but the interest in Luiz indicates what Arteta wants to add to the squad in the winter window.