There is no secret that Arsenal’s strong finish to the 2019/20 campaign will follow up with a busy summer transfer window. Although the club is yet to make a move so far, manager Mikel Arteta has already shown a lot of ambition, with the Spaniard especially keen on fixing the midfield department. In this article, we will discuss three midfielders Arsenal should target this summer.
Konrad Laimer – RB Leipzig
Konrad Laimer is one of the most industrious midfielders in the Bundesliga right now. He has been an ever-present figure in Julian Nagelsmann’s RB Leipzig side, playing a key role in the second line of press. However, his performances have gone under the radar due to the club having chock-full of attacking superstars like Timo Werner, Emil Forsberg and Marcel Sabitzer.
A central midfielder by trade, Laimer is primarily known for his relentless stamina that allows him to cover the whole ninety minutes pressing the opposition. The Austrian international is also capable of providing defensive support to the backline, thanks to his ability to read the game as well as a fierce attitude that often becomes useful in the counter-press.
Signing Laimer will surely be difficult as he has signed an extension at Leipzig earlier this year. But, he can be an ideal replacement and possibly even an upgrade over Lucas Torreira at Arsenal.
Abdoulaye Doucoure – Watford
Watford are certainly in for a mass exodus this summer following their relegation from the Premier League this past season. Abdoulaye Doucoure, in particular, is one of the few players who is more than deserving of staying in the top flight in the upcoming campaign.
The Frenchman has been an ever-present figure for the Hornets over the past couple of years. He is often advertised as an all-rounder, who is most effective when marching the ball forward with pace. Indeed, the 27-year-old loves to attack which should add more bite into Arsenal’s creativity and incision from midfield.
Additionally, Doucoure is known for his tenacity and aggression, making him a tailor-made fit for Arteta’s tactical setup. Arsenal, therefore, could consider making a move for the Watford midfielder this summer.
Mario Gotze – Free agent
Mario Gotze could be an interesting option for Arsenal for multiple reasons. The German midfielder, first and foremost, is currently a free agent after seeing out his contract at Borussia Dortmund this past season.
But more importantly, Gotze has a vast amount of experience at the highest level of football that should blend in well with a relatively young Arsenal squad. Besides, he can bring the winning mentality to the Gunners, having won numerous titles over the course of his career, including the FIFA World Cup.
Gotze was primarily considered as a centre-forward by Lucien Favre at Dortmund. However, he can be an effective outlet in the number eight or even in a number ten role.
The 28-year-old certainly has the technical prowess as well as the intelligence to make himself a valued asset at Arsenal, and for free, Gotze could indeed be a bargain for the north London giants.
