Arsenal: Lining up replacements for a midfield in turmoil

Dani Ceballos

Dani Ceballos’ departure is inevitable, as he will return to Real Madrid at the end of this season, and should he not choose to stay, there are two men who should replace him. The first of those is Leicester City’s Youri Tielemans.

The Belgian has impressed under Brendan Rodgers, and was key in Monaco’s title-winning season in 2016/17. Still only 22, he is the creative hub of a Leicester side sitting in second. With three goals and four assists to his name this year, he may not appear to have the best track record this season, but like Ceballos he thrives in possession, and excels at making space and providing chances for his teammates.

He plays 1.4 key passes per match, for a total of 24 on the season, and loses possession less than once a game. He is also very effective in the high-pressing system employed by Rodgers at Leicester.

He is a player of remarkable quality and composure, and at just 22, he has already proven himself ready for the rigors of the Premier League, especially in the center of the midfield, the most trying position. He is similar to Thomas Partey, in that he is a very well-rounded midfielder.

He is slowly establishing himself as one of the best passers in the league, and it is difficult to overlook his defensive contributions. He is not as tricky as Ceballos, but is certainly less flighty. He would also be a good replacement for Guendouzi. His sole drawback would be a hefty price tag; Leicester purchased him for upwards of 40 million, and Transfermarkt values him at 62 million, which is likely less than what Leicester will ask.

The second player—and the one who I am truly hoping we sign—is Houssem Aouar of Lyon. The 21-year-old Frenchman had links to Arsenal over the summer for prices as high as 90 million. I think his price is more around 40-50 million, which is more than enough for the skill he brings for the table. The diminutive midfielder—he stands around 5’8’’—is silky smooth on the ball, and best on the half turn, very similar to Ceballos. He is also clinical in the final third, with 4 goals to his name this season. He averages 1 key pass per game, completes 2.6 dribbles, and draws 1.9 fouls per game on average.

His play almost resembles Santi Cazorla in his prime; he excels when he receives the ball with his back to defenders, and is able to turn past them into space, which he does routinely. He plays best at center midfield, but has deployed as a number 10 and wide left for Lyon this season, with marked success throughout. Much of his play style involves layoffs and quick one-twos throughout the midfield and attacking thirds, making him ideal for Arteta’s system. He’s an incredible talent, and we would be lucky to have him.

Finally, the spotlight.