Mikel Arteta set to pull off blockbuster move for two top transfer targets

Mikel Arteta, the manager of Arsenal, looks set to pull off two of his transfer requests for free. The Spaniard is reportedly interested in signing a center-back and a central midfielder but may have to wait until the summer to complete a pair of bargain deals.

Arsenal is targeting a forward this January while also prioritizing the signing of a winger, with Mykhaylo Mudryk the top target.

Arteta recently stated that he is always looking to strengthen his squad and that he cannot afford to let a window pass by without making the most of it. A striker would relieve the burden on Eddie Nketiah, who is currently the only fit option through the middle.

However, the Evening Standard reports that Arteta is also interested in a left-sided centre-back and a central midfielder. Both of those transactions could be completed for a grand total of £0 in transfer fees.

According to the report, Arteta admires Eintracht Frankfurt defender Evan Ndicka. Ndicka’s contract expires at the end of the season, so he could reach an agreement with a foreign club in January ahead of a summer move.

The Frenchman is left-footed, so he fits the bill and Gabriel Magalhaes would have backup and competition from him.

Meanwhile, Leicester City midfielder Youri Tielemans’ contract expires in the summer. Throughout 2022, he has been linked with Arsenal, but the Gunners have yet to make a move.

Tielemans is interested in joining the Emirates. If he holds out, a free transfer at the end of the season is possible.

Signing both players for nothing would be a huge boost for Arteta. This would free up other funds for the squad’s more pressing needs.

Arteta insisted last week that he will be active in January. However, he is wary of bringing in the right player in preparation of a potential title run.

“We’re going to be active, and active means always looking to strengthen the team,” he said. This squad still does not have the luxury of not maximizing every single window, and we must do so because it is critical.

“But then we want to get the right profile, the right player, and a player who is going to have a real impact on the team and take us to the next level,” he says.