Arsenal plan to scupper Man City in race for Premier League enforcer

Arteta.Guardiola.Arsenal.TEAMtalk

Arsenal have emerged as a contender to sign an Aston Villa midfield general, though Man City could have the final say.

Central midfield has long been a concern for various managers at The Emirates.

Mikel Arteta is no different, with Matteo Guendouzi and Lucas Torreira both rumoured to be departing this summer.

The purse strings are expected to be tight for the Spaniard regarding incomings, however, while the latest regarding the contract situaition of Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang could tie up further funds.

Arteta will therefore have to be shrewd in the market, leading to speculation of a swoop for Villa midfielder Douglas Luiz.

90min report that Arsenal are weighing up a move for the Brazilian, who has impressed this season despite Villa’s struggles

Arteta is described as a ‘long-standing admirer’ of Luiz from his time at The Etihad.

Luiz departed Man City last summer for a fee of around £15m. But Pep Guardiola’s side were reportedly reluctant to sanction his departure.

Douglas Luiz Aston Villa TEAMtalk

Work permit issues were cited at the time, and City ensured they inserted a buy-back clause in Luiz’s contract.

90min add that City could activate the clause for one of two reasons.

Firstly, to bolster their midfield depth, or secondly, with a view to loaning him out.

Arsenal retain hopes of usurping City, however. And Arteta is hopeful his connections with his former club will pave the way for a move for Luiz.

 

Veteran centre-back Arsenal-bound?

Meanwhile a superstar centre-half could be on the move after his manager revealed he is likely to depart his current club this summer.

The latest developments offer encouragement to Arsenal and Everton, who are interested in signing the defender on a free.

Mikel Arteta is reportedly hoping David Luiz can convince his fellow countryman to move to the Emirates.

The Spaniard is looking to strengthen his defensive options ahead of next season after the Gunners’ struggles at the back this term.

Read who the player in question is in the full story here.