The Athletic’s David Ornstein has shed light on Arsenal’s search for a top midfielder, detailing why a deal for Amadou Onana is doubtful but a move for Martin Zubimendi is possible.
Mikel Arteta aspires for his club to continue its growth and restore its reputation as a European giant. His engine room is one area where he expects to strengthen over the summer.Declan Rice, since joining, has been fantastic in Arsenal’s midfield, but there is a feeling that the club needs another top midfielder to play alongside him and Martin Odegaard to complete their puzzle.
There have been rumours of several top midfield players moving to the Emirates Stadium in the summer.
According to David Ornstein, the Gunners are still not sure whether they will recruit a No. 6 or No. 8 midfielder. Arsenal have several transfer alternatives for the No. 8 position, but if they decide to sign a No. 6, Mikel Arteta top target appears to be Martin Zubimendi.
Many have linked Everton’s Amadou Onana with a transfer from Goodison Park to the Emirates Stadium. There were reports in January that Arsenal had held conversations about signing him, but according to Ornstein, the Gunners now think he isn’t the type of player they want and are unwilling to pay his £50 million asking price.
Writing for The Athletic on Ornstein said:
“I’m sure there is some appreciation for Onana at Arsenal and elsewhere, but I’m not sure he fits their profile or price bracket.
“In the number 6 role, we know Arteta likes Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi (and there will be others). If it’s a No 8 they go for there will be multiple options as well.”
Ornstein breathes hope into Arsenal’s pursuit of Zubimendi. Arteta may spearhead that chase, and ultimately it may be up to him to persuade the player to join — there has been speculation that Zubimendi may be reluctant to leave La Real. Anyway, if the 25-year-old chooses to move to North London, Arsenal may have to trigger his £51 million release clause.
Some Gooners may be disappointed Arsenal won’t pursue Onana, but Arteta and his technical bench know best. We need to trust them to bring in the right player to fit Arteta’s system. We’ll just have to wait and see who that is…
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