Arsenal are looking to add creativity to their midfield this summer as well as steel, according to David Ornstein.

chelsea fc v real madrid quarterfinal second leg uefa champions league
LONDON, ENGLAND: Mason Mount of Chelsea applauds the fans after their side’s defeat in the UEFA Champions League quarterfinal second leg match between Chelsea FC and Real Madrid at Stamford Bridge on April 18, 2023. (Photo by Clive Rose/Getty Images)

Arsenal are aiming to make a couple of midfield signings this summer, with Declan Rice a priority for the Gunners.

Recent reports have suggested Arsenal are also looking at Moises Caicedo and Romeo Lavia, with the implication that a defensively-minded midfielder is a key target.

Yet The Athletic’s David Ornstein reports that there’s a sense around the north London club that a creative midfield addition is also necessary.

“In front of that holding position, there is the feeling around the club that a bit more creativity is needed to supplement the likes of Martin Odegaard – and that’s why there’s admiration for Mason Mount,” Ornstein explained.

Ornstein had previously reported that Arsenal were looking at Mount and Mohammed Kudus for their number eight position, though those may not be their only potential targets.

Ajax's Ghanaian midfielder Mohammed Kudus reacts after his goal was disallowed during the UEFA Europa League play-off 2nd-leg football match between FC Union Berlin and Ajax Amsterdam in Berlin, on February 23, 2023. (Photo by John MACDOUGALL / AFP) (Photo by JOHN MACDOUGALL/AFP via Getty Images)
Ajax’s Ghanaian midfielder Mohammed Kudus reacts after his goal was disallowed during the UEFA Europa League play-off 2nd-leg football match between FC Union Berlin and Ajax Amsterdam in Berlin, on February 23, 2023. (Photo by JOHN MACDOUGALL/AFP via Getty Images)

The Evening Standard report that Liverpool are currently viewed as the favourites for Mount, but it’s still early days for the summer window right now.

If Liverpool fail to secure a spot in the top-four, which is pretty likely, Arsenal would have the advantage of Champions League football in their pursuit of Mount or any other target.