Arsenal are set to make decisive moves in the January transfer market with a focus on strengthening their midfield.
The club is reportedly planning a £52 million bid for Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi and considering a move for Aston Villa’s Douglas Luiz, highlighting their proactive approach in bolstering the squad for upcoming challenges.
Arsenal are reportedly gearing up for a significant investment in their midfield, with a £52 million bid for Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi, amidst interests from European heavyweights Barcelona and Bayern Munich.
Additionally, the Gunners are contemplating a move for Aston Villa’s Douglas Luiz, as they seek to improve their squad in the January transfer window.
Zubimendi, who has been a standout in his debut Champions League campaign, has previously attracted Arsenal’s attention, leading the club to consider a summer move.
The 24-year-old midfielder’s contract with Sociedad runs until 2027, featuring a £52 million release clause, which Arsenal could trigger.
Arsenal’s midfield concerns have been amplified by the injury woes of Thomas Partey. The Ghanaian has been sidelined with a thigh injury, ruling him out for the rest of the calendar year.
Partey’s persistent injuries since joining Arsenal have prompted the club to explore new options.
Douglas Luiz, the 25-year-old Brazilian midfielder playing for Aston Villa, has also reportedly emerged as a prime target.
Arsenal’s interest in Luiz is longstanding, with the club having previously attempted to sign him before he agreed a new deal with Villa.
Reports suggest that Arsenal could place a bid for Luiz when the January window opens, as he is currently viewed as the club’s top target, a label that has been applied to a number of players already.
Luiz’s performance this season, with five goals and one assist in 11 Premier League games, is said to have further solidified Arsenal’s interest.
Both Tottenham and Chelsea have also shown interest in Luiz, who has become a pivotal figure under Unai Emery at Villa Park.
The potential acquisition of Zubimendi or Luiz could be funded by the sale of Partey, who is reportedly keen on a move away from Arsenal, with Juventus showing interest.