20-year-old Arsenal target was outstanding at AFCON yesterday, Arteta has to sign him this month

Sun 14 January 2024 15:15, UK

There’s no doubt that the January transfer window could be a huge opportunity for Mikel Arteta to improve his Arsenal side.

Recent performances have caused concern, mainly because Arsenal have relentlessly failed to finish their chances.

However, it seems as if the club are most likely to recruit a defender this month to better balance their squad.

Ideally, Arteta would probably also like to add a midfielder and a striker to his Arsenal team in January, additions which could contribute goals.

However, improvements at the back could also have that desired ripple effect.

And following his performance for Ivory Coast yesterday, it’s clear that centre-back Ousmane Diomande should be a real priority.

Playing 90 minutes for his country in a 2-0 win over Guinea-Bissau, Diomande showed all of his attributes, a player destined for the top of the game.

According to , Diomande completed 92% of his 66 passes, and also won 80% of his duels.

The defender would be an expensive acquisition this month, but he’s one that could be a pillar of the next decade.

Mikel Arteta needs to add Ousmane Diomande to his Arsenal squad before January ends

It’s odd to consider that Arsenal could make a signing to disrupt their pairing of William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhaes, but Diomande is that good.

Perhaps his price tag will be a huge issue this month, but a move could still be possible if players depart.

Fans would probably be very frustrated to see such an outlay for a defender, but it’s where the squad is most desperate for a signing.

And if Diomande did arrive in January, Arteta would have secured a coup for Arsenal, a player all of Europe’s elite will want in the summer.

Mikel Arteta is said to love Diomande’s skill set, a player he would really like to bring to the club.

And if Arsenal are able to shuffle around their finances, the Sporting Lisbon defender would be a superb addition.

Moreover, it a move doesn’t transpire this month, Diomande should be first on the list for the summer.