Report: Arsenal now closing in on ‘incredible’ £50m-rated target, he’s a priority for Arteta

Wed 12 January 2022 19:15, UK

Arsenal have reportedly stepped up their efforts to get their hands on Arthur Melo in the January transfer window.

The Gunners have been linked with the Juventus midfielder for a number of weeks now.

Arsenal could certainly do with bolstering their central midfield ranks as soon as possible.

Thomas Partey and Mohamed Elneny are at the Africa Cup of Nations.And Ainsley Maitland-Niles has joined Roma on loan.

Now, according to , there has been “new contact” over the past few hours in terms of Arsenal’s pursuit of Arthur.

Mikel Arteta has reportedly requested for the Gunners to land the 25-year-old.

The report also suggests Arsenal stand a good chance of landing the ace.

Until last week, Arthur had not considered any offers to leave the Serie A side in January.

However, he has since opened up for a possible transfer if he gets a good proposal and can get more game time.

If these two conditions are fulfilled, the midfielder will look to make his move ‘immediately’.

Arthur’s parent club will have the final say as ‘everything depends on what Juve want to do’, added the report.

Similarly, has reported that the Brazil international is a priority signing for Arsenal, who are in advanced talks with Juve over his signature.

Last month, reported that Arthur is surplus to requirements at Juve but would still cost at least £50million.

“Really similar to Xavi”

Arthur has struggled for game time this season, getting just 11 appearances and 426 minutes under his belt for Juve.

Despite his recent issues, it’s worth remembering some deemed Arthur a potential Xavi successor at Barcelona a few years ago.

Former Arsenal captain Thomas Vermaelen previously called Arthur “a good player”, as per .

“His start (at Barcelona) has been incredible. He has all the battling skills and the technical ability to go right to the top.”

Meanwhile, Lionel Messi : “He’s really similar to Xavi.

“He’s really safe and reliable [on the ball]. He has the style of a player that’s come through La Masia.

“He plays well over short distances, he doesn’t lose the ball, he’s quickly got to grips with the team’s dynamic.”