According to The Sun, as cited by Express, Arsenal are ready for yet another spending spree this summer. The Gunners have identified three top targets in Gabriel Magalhaes, Dani Ceballos and Thomas Partey, all of who could cost a combined fee of around £100 million. Arsenal, however, must sell multiple first-team stars to fund this triple swoop eyed by Mikel Arteta.
Gabriel Magalhaes: The David Luiz replacement?
Arsenal’s decision to extend David Luiz’s contract seems to have paid off as the defender played a key role behind the club’s strong finish to the season. However, the club must find a proper long-term replacement for the Brazilian, who is already in the final phase of his career. That is where Gabriel comes into the fray.
The LOSC Lille centre-back has been one of the rising stars in Ligue 1 this campaign, building a formidable defensive partnership alongside Jose Fonte. He has already impressed the onlookers with his athleticism and commitment, and much like his compatriot Luiz, he is known for his compassion and motivating qualities at the club.
At Arsenal, Gabriel could provide some much-needed competition for the likes of Rob Holding and William Saliba, with Arteta likely to offload stars like Sokratis and Shkodran Mustafi. His presence in the side will make it easier for the Spaniard to continue employing the three-man backline next season.
Dani Ceballos: The spark in midfield
Dani Ceballos was widely considered as a failure at Arsenal, after joining from Real Madrid on a season-long loan deal last summer. However, his form since Project Restart has been incredible. In fact, he has arguably been the club’s best player since mid-June.
What made Ceballos such an asset for Arsenal during the final phase of the campaign is the fact that the midfielder managed to improve his game to an unprecedented level. He was more willing to commit himself to challenges and looked brave when it came to pressing the opposition. It was combined with the star’s exceptional passing that added another dimension to the Arsenal midfield.
As they prepare for the new season, Ceballos’ return to Emirates could be critical as Arteta looks to continue his revolution.
Thomas Partey: An upgrade over Granit Xhaka
Since the appointment of Arteta, Granit Xhaka has been one of the most consistent players for Arsenal. The Swiss international has found a new rhythm in his game and has looked much composed in possession. His leadership qualities have also proved beneficial for the team.
However, if the Gunners are to seriously challenge the top dogs like Liverpool, Man City and Chelsea, they must find an upgrade in most areas of their current squad, and Xhaka is no exception. That is also where Partey could come into the fray.
The Atletico Madrid midfielder is widely considered as one of the best in La Liga. At Emirates, the Ghanian international could finally fill Arsenal’s woes in the number six role, providing a sense of stability with his strong tackling and physicality while adding more assurance during possession phases. He will be a perfect fit for Arteta’s dynamic style of play.
