Arsenal could have more luck trying to sign £34m Everton player rather than Douglas Luiz

Thu 28 December 2023 16:45, UK

It’s certainly no secret that Mikel Arteta has been keen to bring Aston Villa midfielder Douglas Luiz to Arsenal for some time.

Arsenal have been tracking Luiz for years, a player who could perfectly suit a few roles in Arteta’s midfield.

But Arsenal’s patience in securing their target has led to him becoming insurmountably important for Unai Emery’s Aston Villa project.

And a player who was once seen as a more realistic or cost-effective alternative to the world’s best, may now not present that value.

A fee similar to the deal that brought Declan Rice to Arsenal has now been mentioned – something that should scupper any chances.

And with that in mind, have now shared a report detailing one alternative that is considered more achievable for Arsenal.

As well as their long-standing interest in Douglas Luiz, Arsenal and Mikel Arteta are also keen on Everton midfielder Amadou Onana.

The club have tracked Onana for a year and seem keen on his profile of midfielder.

Although many assume that Arsenal would prefer a playmaker akin to Jorginho’s skill set in the pivot, the club have been exploring multiple options.

And perhaps Onana could fall into the same category as Fulham’s Joao Palhinha, another player strongly linked.

Arsenal keen on Everton midfielder Amadou Onana as Douglas Luiz deal proves difficult

There’s certainly some interesting options for Arsenal in the market.

However, the clubs attached to all three of the midfielders mentioned would surely only be willing to listen to a deal in the summer.

According to this same report, Arsenal will prioritise a short-term deal for defensive cover in January – something that makes a lot of sense.

The club now look incredibly short of options at the back with Jurrien Timber missing the majority of the season and Takehiro Tomiyasu also injured.

Moreover, with the latter heading to the Asian Cup shortly, that only leaves Jakub Kiwior and Cedric Soares in reserve to the starting four.

So whilst Arsenal may be keen to boost their squad with a new midfielder, it’s clear that the focus currently lies elsewhere.