Arsenal Transfers: Gunners ‘serious’ about signing Brazilian midfielder

BELO HORIZONTE, BRAZIL - AUGUST 03: Danilo of Palmeiras reacts after equalizing a Copa CONMEBOL Libertadores 2022 first-leg quarter final match between Atletico Mineiro and Palmeiras at Mineirao Stadium on August 03, 2022 in Belo Horizonte, Brazil. (Photo by Buda Mendes/Getty Images)
BELO HORIZONTE, BRAZIL - AUGUST 03: Danilo of Palmeiras reacts after equalizing a Copa CONMEBOL Libertadores 2022 first-leg quarter final match between Atletico Mineiro and Palmeiras at Mineirao Stadium on August 03, 2022 in Belo Horizonte, Brazil. (Photo by Buda Mendes/Getty Images) /
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Arsenal have been linked with Palmeiras midfielder Danilo for some time and the latest reports suggest the club will make a move for the Brazilian in January.

The Gunners were keen on signing a midfielder at the back end of the summer transfer window after Mohamed Elneny picked up a long-term injury. They identified Aston Villa’s Douglas Luiz as their priority target on deadline day, but they failed to sign the Brazilian despite lodging multiple bids.

Luiz has since signed a contract extension at Villa Park, which has all but ruled out a move to the Emirates anytime soon.

Thus, Arsenal have already sounded out alternatives for January and Palmeiras’ Danilo is a talent the Gunners are keeping a close eye on.

Gunners ‘serious’ about signing Brazilian midfielder

The club’s interest in the 21-year-old is well-documented and the Daily Express’ Ryan Taylor understands that a move will be made “in due course”. However, they might be forced to wait until next summer to sign him.

Danilo is a crucial player in the Palmeiras set-up and the Brazilian club does not want to lose their talented young midfielder.

Speaking in late September, Palmeiras president Leila Pereira said: “Regarding Danilo: I said he wasn’t going to leave [in the summer] and he didn’t. I’ll tell you; players of this size, important in the history of Palmeiras, I don’t make decisions alone.

“I always consult our coach, coaching staff. If my coach says he can’t lose the player under any circumstances, he doesn’t leave.”

Palmeiras’ stance means it could take a bumper offer from Arsenal to prise him away, hence why it might be easier for the club to pull off the move next summer.

Nevertheless, the Gunners are undoubtedly keen on acquiring the Brazilian midfielder at some point with scouts continuing to monitor his progress. Danilo has played a key role for Palmeiras this season, playing 30 games in the Brazilian top flight with his side on the verge of winning the league title.