4 alternate midfield targets for Arsenal this summer

Let the sagas begin, folks!

The 2023 summer transfer window is soon open for business and Arsenal are expected to be one of the major players in the market. After enjoying an exponential improvement in 2022/23, the Gunners are now in a position to challenge Manchester City for major domestic honours.

Usurping Pep Guardiola’s all-time great side, however, will be no easy task. They’ve got to nail this upcoming transfer window – and that’s just the start!

A crucial part of the club’s refreshment this summer lies in its engine room. With Granit Xhaka departing and the futures of both Thomas Partey and Jorginho uncertain, Arsenal are expected to make at least two midfield signings.

Now, we all know who the priority is. Declan Rice is the man the Gunners desire most, but interest from elsewhere could complicate matters. The situation is similar with Moises Caicedo, while a move for potential free agent Ilkay Gundogan is a borderline pipe dream.

Nevertheless, should Arsenal’s summer midfield plans go astray, supporters should have confidence in their technical director given his track record when shifting to plan B.

4 alternate midfield targets for Arsenal this summer

Here are four alternate midfield targets for Arsenal this summer should they fail to land either Rice or Caicedo.

1. Khéphren Thuram

Now, a move for Thuram – son of Lillian and Marcus’ younger brother – is highly unlikely given that Liverpool are set to win the race for the coveted midfielder’s signature. The Gunners would have to make a sharp detour from their current plans to snatch him away from the Reds’ grasp.

Nevertheless, Thuram is a player that Arteta would undoubtedly appreciate given his capacity to perform as both a #6 and #8. He’s also previously excelled in a role similar to the one Xhaka performed for Arsenal in 2022/23. While not necessarily a playmaker, Thuram is adept at receiving possession ahead of the ball and gaining positional superiority between the lines.

His silky ball-carrying has seen him draw comparisons to Mousa Dembele, and, standing at 6’4, he certainly doesn’t lack an imposing physical presence.

Overall, Thuram is a midfielder with immense potential and it’s no surprise that Liverpool, who are also in need of a midfield rebuild and have started superbly with the addition of Alexis Mac Allister, are keen on bringing him to Anfield.

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