Sports journalist Gilberto Silva now seems to have affirmed that Arsenal's primary focus in the January transfer window is to bolster their midfield.
Concerns about the durability of Gabriel Jesus have sparked rumors that Mikel Arteta is considering a strong push to acquire a new striker.
Ivan Toney, who is set to complete an eight-month ban for violating betting regulations, was initially identified as a top target. However, Brentford's £80 million asking price and competition from Chelsea make a deal seem unlikely.
Despite this, Arsenal now seem more inclined to reinforce their midfield. Arteta's attempt to replace Granit Xhaka with Kai Havertz has not shown much success this season.
Thomas Partey's recent injury setback adds more pressure to record signing Kai Havertz and Jorginho, whose contract has just over eight months left.
Mohamed Elneny, an experienced Egyptian international, has returned to full fitness after a year-long absence. However, his contract is also set to expire at the end of the current season, and he is expected to be called up for the Africa Cup of Nations in January.
Arsenal have been linked to Aston Villa's Douglas Luiz, whom they tried to sign 14 months ago before he extended his contract.
Speaking about the London side's plans for the upcoming transfer window, Silva told Mirror Sport, via Metro UK.
"I heard that they were maybe looking for some midfielders especially because of Partey being injured at times.
"I’m not sure if it’s 100 per cent going to happen but obviously, they have to be aware that this is a very short window and very specific."
He added: "You have to be like a fisherman sometimes, to grab the right player that you really need that’s going to help you to win games and to be useful for the rest of the season. Also to improve the way you play.
"It’s not about sometimes bringing a player because you need [them]. Speaking to people there, Edu many times, they are working hard to have the data and what they think is right for the club in terms of targets."
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