Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is a big fan of Aston Villa attacking midfielder Jacob Ramsey, according to GoonerNews and LondonWorld reporter Chris Wheatley.
Speaking on Shots!TV, Wheatley revealed that both Ramsey and teammate Douglas Luiz are targets for the Gunners ahead of the January transfer window:
“We do know that Arsenal also like Aston Villa midfielder Jacob Ramsey. He is a player that Mikel Arteta has kept his eye on for quite a while now. A really talented, young player, bit more of an attacking midfielder than [Douglas] Luiz but there is interest from the Gunners.”
Ramsey has not played a great deal this season, having made just 3 appearances in total due to a foot injury, but he is expected to return to action shortly after the international break.
If the 22-year-old impresses for Villa over the next month to six weeks, Arsenal may consider making an offer for the England Under 21 international in the New Year.
Why are Arsenal interested in Ramsey?
Despite his injury problems this season, the midfielder had a very impressive 2022/23 campaign, scoring 6 goals and contributing 8 assists in 38 appearances.
With Kai Havertz’s ongoing struggles and rumours that Fabio Vieira could leave the Emirates, Ramsey could be signed to strengthen Arsenal’s options in midfield.
Is a bid for Ramsey in January realistic?
With Douglas Luiz believed to be a priority target, it is difficult to see how the Gunners would be able to sign two players from Aston Villa in the same transfer window.
Neither player is likely to be cheap and for Mikel Arteta’s side to raise the necessary funds, and avoid any FFP penalties, they may need to sell someone like Emile Smith Rowe, whose future at the club has also been called into question.
