Arsenal ‘set to raid top-four Premier League rivals’ to replace Thomas Partey amid £45m star’s year-long transfer hell

6 months ago 30

ARSENAL are ready to make a move for Aston Villa star Douglas Luiz in January, according to reports.

The Gunners are keen to strengthen their midfield following the injury to Thomas Partey, who could be out until the new year.

Luiz is a player they have admired for some time but Villa also rate him highly.

Arsenal could be set to bid for the Brazilian when the transfer window re-opens as he is the Gunners’ number one target, reports Fabrizio Romano.

They were keen on Luiz in 2022 but the 25-year-old signed a new contract at Villa Park.

Arsenal re-ignited their interest in the summer with Tottenham and Chelsea also monitoring his situation.

Luiz, 25, is a key player for Unai Emery’s side and he has five goals and one assist in 11 Premier League games this season.

Arsenal are on the lookout for a midfield addition and have been linked to Real Sociedad star Martin Zubimendi.

The Spaniard has a £52million release clause and Arsenal could fund the move by selling Partey.

The injury-prone ace has reportedly told the club he wants to leave amid interest from Juventus.

The Gunners are also plotting a move for Ivan Toney so could have to sell four players to raise funds.

Eddie Nketiah, Aaron Ramsdale and Emile Smith Rowe have all been mooted as players who could leave the club.