Palmeiras v Sao Paulo - Brasileirao 2022 — SAO PAULO, BRAZIL - OCTOBER 16: Danilo of Palmeiras makes an attempt on target during the match between Palmeiras and Sao Paulo as part of Brasileirao Series A 2022 at Allianz Parque on October 16, 2022 in Sao Paulo, Brazil. (Photo by Ricardo Moreira/Getty Images)

Arsenal looking to sign another level of player in January

Nov 3, 2022

Mikel Arteta says Arsenal want to target another level of player in January, but it will depend on whether such a player is available.

topshot fbl eur c3 arsenal bodoe glimt — Arsenal’s Spanish manager Mikel Arteta reacts during the UEFA Europa League Group A football match between Arsenal and Bodoe/Glimt at The Arsenal Stadium in London, on October 6, 2022. (Photo by DANIEL LEAL/AFP via Getty Images)

Speaking in his pre-FC Zurich press conference, Mikel Arteta suggested that Arsenal’s position at the top of the league means the club now need to push for top-quality targets in January.

“We know the January window, how special it is, the opportunities that you have, the short window that you have,” Arteta said.

“And obviously with the position that we are in right now as well, it demands as well another level of player — and that player has to be available. We will look at everything and let’s see what we can do.”

The Telegraph reported on Wednesday that Arsenal will back Arteta in January, with technical director Edu Gaspar looking to bring in a player to give the squad a lift for the second half of the season.

It’s not clear exactly who that player will be, as the report suggests Arteta would welcome a winger but he has also looked at central midfielders.

The Telegraph claim Palmeiras’ Danilo has been considered for that midfield position, and Ryan Taylor of the Express reports that Arsenal are serious about signing the Brazilian after extensive scouting – with Edu driving the interest.

SAO PAULO, BRAZIL: Danilo of Palmeiras controls the ball during a match between Palmeiras and Flamengo as part of Brasileirao 2022 at Allianz Parque on August 21, 2022. (Photo by Miguel Schincariol/Getty Images)

As for a potential signing on the wing, various recent reports have mentioned Facundo Torres of Orlando City, and The Telegraph repeat that Torres is on Edu’s radar.

But the most recent update from Uruguay suggested a move for Torres was more likely in the summer.

Whilst it’s hard to say for sure who Arsenal will pursue in January, it looks like they’re going to have an active window.