Arsenal are not in negotiations to sign Al Hilal midfielder Ruben Neves, Bayer Leverkusen’s Julian Brandt or Fenerbahce’s Ferdi Kadioglu, according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano.
Writing in his Daily Briefing Substack column, Romano said that manager Mikel Arteta has “always liked” Neves, in particular, but the Portuguese international is currently not a target. He also revealed that neither Brandt nor Kadioglu are being looked at by the Gunners:
“Julian Brandt has been linked again and I’m aware that they had some interest in him two years ago, but I’ve heard nothing since then.”
“Ferdi Kadioglu is another name doing the rounds, but again I’m afraid I’m not aware of anything concrete happening there.”
Arsenal are expected to prioritise a move for an Aston Villa player
Romano’s latest remarks are consistent with his reporting that the Gunners already have a top target in mind to strengthen the midfield.
Douglas Luiz is said to be the number one priority for the London club, but it remains to be seen whether the Brazilian is affordable.
It has been suggested by some news outlets that Emile Smith Rowe could be used as a makeweight, although that hasn’t been confirmed by any reliable sources.
Why are Arsenal so intent on signing a midfielder?
Thomas Partey’s ongoing injury problems have reportedly forced Mikel Arteta’s side into rethinking their priorities ahead of the January transfer window. The Ghanaian international has only made 5 appearances this season and he is expected to be out until the New Year, having undergone a procedure to fix a thigh injury.
It should also be pointed out that Kai Havertz has struggled since arriving from Chelsea in the summer, and that may have given greater urgency to sign a new midfielder.
