Thomas Partey would make more tactical sense for Mikel Arteta’s side.
Arsenal are lacking both quality and depth in that position, attributes which Partey certainly possesses.
The Ghanaian currently plays for Atletico Madrid, making 46 appearances last season, registering four goals and one assist.
Dynamic addition
He would make a dynamic addition to Arsenal’s midfield, offering something different to what Granit Xhaka and Dani Ceballos bring to the team.
It is widely believed that Partey has a £45 million release clause and following the sale of Emiliano Martinez to Aston Villa for £20 million, Arsenal will be increasingly confident of being able to afford to activate the clause.
French superstar
The Gunners’ have also been heavily linked to Lyon’s breakout midfielder Houssem Aouar. The 22-year-old has been in sensational for Lyon this season, scoring nine goals and assisting 10 in his 41 appearances.
The Frenchman’s versatility will also be appealing for Arsenal, with Aouar playing centrally, as well as an attacking and left sided midfielder.
If only Aouar joins Arteta’s ranks, the selection becomes relatively more straight- forward. Mesut Ozil has been out of favour since Project Restart in June, losing his place even on the bench to youngster Matt Smith.
The young Frenchman would slot into the attacking midfielder role very nicely for Arsenal, whilst maintaining the partnership of Xhaka and Ceballos.
The Verdict
Supporters will be left wondering where two midfielders could slot into the side, especially considering the re-signing of Ceballos on loan - who worked well in a pair with Xhaka last season - Partey proving the more difficult to fit in.
Ceballos could easily be pushed forward into a more advanced role to suit the addition of Partey, who would likely play alongside Xhaka. Alternatively, Partey could be dropped into a more defensive role, leaving the pairing of Xhaka and Ceballos together.
This is of course dependent on Arteta’s team selection, the young manager favouring three centre backs in recent times, reducing the need for an advanced playmaker.
Both midfielders would be quality additions for the team, in an area in desperate need of attention, and whilst it is unlikely that both will arrive through the door at Emirates Stadium, Arsenal fans will surely be delighted with either midfielders signature.