Martin Keown thinks Arsenal are finally about to sign a player they’ve been ‘crying out for’, he’s ‘exceptional’

Sat 15 January 2022 7:15, UK

Arsenal legend Martin Keown has given his verdict on reported Gunners target Arthur Melo.

Mikel Arteta is in need of reinforcements in the middle of the park in the January transfer window.

Thomas Partey and Mohamed Elneny are at the Africa Cup of Nations while Granit Xhaka is suspended.

In addition, Martin Odegaard has tested positive for covid.

Ainsley Maitland-Niles would’ve been good cover in midfield, but Arsenal allowed him to leave on loan to Roma.

Therefore, it makes sense to hear Arsenal reportedly prioritising midfield reinforcements.

And Arthur appears to be a serious frontrunner – the Gunners are reportedly closing in on his signature.

According to , Juventus are happy for the Brazilian to leave, but want to sign a replacement first.

Arthur is reportedly ready to fly in next week and sign on loan until the summer – if the move gets the go-ahead.

Keown, speaking to talkSPORT (14/1/22, 12pm), believes the 25-year-old could be just what Arsenal need.

“Arsenal need to move in that area (central midfield),” said the Highbury icon.

“(Arthur) is only 25,” Keown adds. “He was injured and hasn’t featured much but they need to get talent in that area.

“They are crying out for some experience.”

Arthur certainly fits the bill – 72 appearances for Barcelona, 44 for Juventus, and 21 Brazil caps is a decent amount of experience.

And that’s before moving on to his quality – the likes of Lionel Messi, Andres Iniesta and Thomas Vermaelen have previously sung his praises.

Messi Arthur to Xavi, Iniesta him “exceptional” and Vermaelen “he has all the battling skills and the technical ability to go right to the top”.

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