The rumour mill is well under way and with the Gunners needing recruits this month, you won’t be surprised to see Arsenal mentioned several times in the gossip columns. So let’s see what the latest rumours are..
Arsenal want to sign £16million Manchester United target Ilkay Gundogan (Mirror)
I’m certain he’s the player Arsene Wenger wants to replace Mikel Arteta. He’s has a similar skillset, but he German is more naturally suited to a deeper role due to his experience there. Gundogan has had his fair share of injuries, but Wenger has tried to sign him on two previous occasions. He is still just 24 and has 18 months remaining on his current contract. Reports in Germany suggest he won’t sign a new deal, meaning Dortmund could be open to selling the player this month. He’s 5ft 11 and not particularly strong in the air, so he doesn’t add what many fans want in the midfield – but he is a quality player. Perhaps he’s too good to turn down, and with Manchester United interested, Wenger won’t want to see a long term target go elsewhere.
The Gunners want Villareal centre back Gabriel Paulista and could offer Joel Campbell on loan in exchange (L’Equipe)
A fairly reliable source – L’Equipe claim the Gunners have dropped interest in Loic Perrin to pursue a move for Villareal defender Paulista. The sudden interest is believable as the Spanish club have expressed an interest in loaning Campbell. Paulista is a centre back who is also capable of playing at left back and has been very impressive for Villareal this season. I don’t know much about him but what I do know is WhoScored rate him highly based on his performances this season. He is 24 (good age) and his strengths are described as ‘interceptions’ and ‘blocking the ball’ – sounds good to me. Oh, and can he be a good footballer too? That’d be useful.