Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta received unwelcome news when a significant injury struck Thomas Partey. This unfortunate development almost certainly implies that the Spanish boss will have to intensify his efforts in the upcoming January transfer window. Use Mostbetlive if you want to bet on Arteta’s team matches.
Partey, the Ghanaian midfielder, has made only three Premier League appearances this season due to a persistent groin problem. Despite appearing ready to provide a boost by traveling for last month’s Champions League trip to Sevilla, he suffered a training ground breakdown just before the match.
Subsequently, it has been confirmed that the 30-year-old Partey underwent a specialist procedure for treatment on a thigh injury and is expected to be sidelined for the remainder of 2023. His return date remains uncertain, further complicated by the Africa Cup of Nations scheduled for January, an event for which Ghana is likely to select him if he’s fit.
The signing of Kai Havertz aimed to fill the void left by Granit Xhaka’s departure, but his adaptation from Chelsea has been challenging. This, coupled with Martin Odegaard’s injury woes, has left Arteta with pressing midfield issues.
Here are the top five targets Arsenal is considering as Arteta contemplates the best approach to replace his key player:
Martin Zubimendi:
Real Sociedad, having recently qualified for the Champions League last-16 for the first time in their history, owe much of their success to this 24-year-old midfielder. Zubimendi is often likened to Barcelona legend Xavi for his remarkable ability to maintain possession in tight spaces. With only two international caps to his name and Arsenal’s spending power constrained by their £200 million summer spending spree, Zubimendi presents a cost-effective option, although potential interest from Bayern Munich could raise his market value.
Ruben Neves:
Given the Financial Fair Play (FFP) regulations, securing a big-money transfer appears unlikely. A loan move for a player with a proven Premier League track record could be an ideal solution for Arteta. Initially linked with Newcastle, Ruben Neves is potentially available, especially considering that the Premier League may soon prohibit loans from clubs under the same ownership. This opens the door for Arsenal to pursue the Al-Hilal midfielder temporarily, allowing Neves to retain his lucrative contract in Saudi Arabia.
Amadou Onana:
Acquiring Amadou Onana may strain Stan Kroenke’s finances, but this player was heavily linked with Arsenal in the past. The Belgian international joined Everton from Lille for £33 million in the summer of 2022 and has been a standout performer amid a turbulent season under Sean Dyche. Everton’s financial challenges may make them more amenable to a cut-price deal, as Dyche may need to sell players before adding reinforcements.
Andre:
While pursuing a player who has yet to experience European football poses a risk for Arteta, 22-year-old Andre hails from Brazil and boasts impressive credentials. He played a pivotal role in Fluminense’s dramatic Copa Libertadores victory this year and made his international debut. Although he is under contract until December 2026, the allure of the Premier League and the Champions League could make Arsenal an enticing prospect, despite potential competition from Liverpool.
Joao Neves:
Joao Neves, a youthful talent at just 19 years old, is poised for greatness. The Benfica sensation has already clinched a Primeira Liga title and has successfully earned a spot in the senior Portugal national team. Securing his signature at this stage could translate into substantial long-term savings for Arsenal.
The question of whether Arteta is willing to take a risk on a player who is still relatively unseasoned at the midpoint of the season remains uncertain. However, one thing is certain – if Arsenal doesn’t act swiftly, this promising teenager won’t be wearing Benfica colors for an extended period.