Arsenal have added Joao Palhinha to their list of defensive midfield targets, with the Portuguese star keen on a new challenge.
According to Fichajes, Arsenal joined the race for Joao Palhinha ahead of the January window. Mikel Arteta wants a new defensive midfielder in his ranks and could consider a move for the €50 million-rated midfield powerhouse if he cannot entice his other top targets.
Arsenal have not played their best football yet this season but find themselves in a commanding position on the Premier League table. The North London club kept hold of their place at the summit after a thrilling last-gasp win over Luton Town.
Mikel Arteta has thought a lot about new additions in the January transfer window, and he would like a top signing to help push the side ahead in their season. Earlier, many reports suggested they needed a striker, but recent developments have seen them prioritise a defensive midfielder in the next window.
There are few options for the positions, with Arteta keen on signing someone who can improve their current setup. Arsenal would not have dipped into the market for a defensive midfielder had they kept Thomas Partey fit. Even if the Ghanaian returns around January, they doubt his long-term availability.
We had formulated a three-person shortlist for Arteta to consider for the midfielder signing, which includes top target Douglas Luiz and Fulham man Joao Palhinha. The Gunners are determined to sign the Brazilian, but have to look at alternatives if Aston Villa refuse to sell, considering that Unai Emery’s side is third on the table.
Joao Palhinha’s emergence in that list should not surprise many, as the Portuguese international has shown he has the mettle to perform with a big side. He narrowly missed out on a move to Bayern Munich only months ago and has since signed a new deal with Fulham.
The €50 million-rated midfield powerhouse could be on the move once the January transfer window opens, with Arsenal likely to become an attractive destination if they are interested. Arteta would want a player who can allow his team to gain control of games and protect the backline adequately.
Palhinha certainly has those attributes, as his presence could also help Declan Rice flourish in a move box-to-box role. Whether Arsenal are willing to pay the reported €50 million price for the Portuguese international remains the question. Still, they might consider investing close to that if Arteta feels he can improve their side.
