As mentioned constantly over the past six months, Arsenal's top priority in the transfer market lies in two demanding positions within Mikel Arteta's squad. Central midfield and out wide.
Fabio Vieira and Marquinhos were signed in the summer but are both viewed as key players for the future, meaning further reinforcements are required ahead of a busy 2023. The Gunners have been linked with a list of players in either position, setting up an intense January transfer window for Edu and Arteta.
When Emile Smith Rowe had undergone surgery to repair a damaged tendon in his groin in September, only Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Jesus, Gabriel Martinelli, Eddie Nketiah and Reiss Nelson were available for selection in the Premier League - instantly increasing links to Shakhtar Donetsk's Mykhaylo Mudryk and Crystal Palace's Wilfried Zaha
READ MORE: Arsenal and Edu fresh January transfer priority outlined after triple World Cup decision is made
However, Smith Rowe is due to return to full training in December and could be part of Arteta's side that travels to Dubai for a mid-season warm weather camp during the World Cup. When he does return, he'll be like a new signing for the Gunners.
Last season, when fully fit, the 22-year-old featured 37 times for Arsenal and contributed to 13 goals. The Hale End product enjoyed his first full season in the Gunners squad and was even part of Gareth Southgate's England squad during November 2021.
However, this term, he's managed only four brief substitute appearances. Smith Rowe's teammates have done splendidly without the winger, sitting top of the Premier League table, but the latter end of the season could see them face over 35 games in the space of five and a half months.
Plenty has been said about the club requiring additional bodies for the hectic schedule that is waiting for them after Christmas. Reports have previously suggested that the Gunners would have to pay in excess of the £60 million they refused to pay for Mudryk in the summer. Getting Smith Rowe back to full fitness could save Edu millions.
It would also allow centre-midfield to receive a much-welcomed boost. Youri Tielemans, who has found his form for Leicester City recently, enters the final six months of his deal in the winter. football.london reported in the summer, before the transfer window close, that Arsenal were prepared to wait until Tielemans’ current contract expires to secure the Belgian on a free transfer.
There is also Palmeiras midfielder Danilo, another long-term target of Edu. The Gunners techical director has previously explored a deal for the Brazilian in the past two transfer windows. football.london understands Arsenal looked into a potential deal for the 21-year-old ahead of deadline day in September, but Palmeiras were unwilling to do business at the time.
A transfer offer that may be too good to turn down for the Brazilian may do the trick.
READ NEXT:
Gabriel Magalhaes’ Brazil World Cup hope not over as Arsenal defender benefits from FIFA ruling
Gary Neville makes shock Arsenal U-turn with huge claim on Premier League title chances
What Neymar did as Arsenal star Gabriel Martinelli's Brazil World Cup inclusion was revealed
Tomiyasu, Marquinhos, Elneny: Arsenal injury news and return dates for Brighton Carabao Cup tie
Arsenal news and transfers LIVE: Latest news, rumours and gossip from the Emirates Stadium
