OPINIONArsenal ‘close’ to Thomas Partey competitor as January transfer decision made on Youri Tielemans
Arsenal’s transfer plans for the January window could see a return to two summer targets as decision made on Thomas Partey’s competition.
Arsenal are reportedly close to signing Palmeiras midfielder Danilo from Palmeiras. The Gunners have been monitoring the 21-year-old and were keen on the player in the summer but with Copa Libertadores commitments the Brazilian side had no intention of selling for below his release clause.
However, football.londonunderstood that a move in January could be revived for Danilo with their participation in the competition over after elimination in the semi-finals after a 3-2 aggregate loss to Athletico Paranaense. Brazilian outlet Bola VIP now claim that Arsenal are ‘close to signing’ Danilo with Palmeiras looking at Udinese’s Wallace to come in as his replacement.
This move by Arsenal would be a clear indication of the decision being made on recruitment positionally in the January market. With finances far more restricted than in the summer, the Gunners will be targeted with their moves.
There are a number of areas in the squad in need of greater competitive quality. Midfield and attack are the two key areas with both Granit Xhaka and Thomas Partey lacking realistic competitors.
Mohamed Elneny and Albert Sambi Lokonga can both provide cover, but if either starter is missing for an extended period there are questions about whether each can offer the necessary quality for a side sitting top of the table at present. Ultimately signing someone as good as either starter in the winter window is realistic, however, Danilo is a player considered certainly of a level higher than the existing depth.
Another advantage is rather than moving for a player better at playing both in the six and eight positions of need. football.londonunderstood that Edu was willing to wait until the summer to sign Leicester City’s Youri Tielemans on a free transfer rather than committing a significant financial investment.
The Belgian would certainly push Granit Xhaka in the team however he wouldn’t be the natural player to fill Partey’s role. Danilo however could and has the scope to rotate with Xhaka also.
At present, there are no further indications of the potential move for Danilo beyond the persisting interest. With some big matches against Newcastle, Manchester United and Tottenham in January Mikel Arteta and Edu will need to work quickly to reinforce the side as early on as possible
