Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has sparked excitement amongst supporters after being recorded talking to AC Milan midfielder and transfer target Ismael Bennacer. The Gunners were provided with a chance to watch their former midfielder in action today as they concluded their trip to Dubai with a 2-1 win over the Italian champions.
First half goals from Martin Odegaard set Arsenal on their way to being crowned champions of the Dubai Super Cup and make it two wins from two in the Middle east. Former Chelsea defender Fikayo Tomori pulled a goal back in the second half before Arteta's side came out on top in the penalty shoot-out after the 90 minutes.
After the game, a video surfaced online of Arteta talking to former Arsenal midfielder Bennacer on the pitch after strength and conditioning coach Sam Wilson brought the pair together.
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Arsenal have been linked with a deal to sign Bennacer ahead of the January transfer window, with previous reports indicating that Edu was preparing a "super offer" for the Algerian next month. football.london understands that the centre of midfield has been made a priority by Arteta and Edu as they look to steer the club to their first league title since 2004.
After it was declared that Palmeiras midfielder Danilo was no longer a target, it's likely that Bennacer will continue to be linked with a move back to north London. However, Arsenal face the tough task of luring the 24-year-old to the club with CalcioMercato stating the Italian side are willing to double Bennacer's salary in order to keep him.
His deal expires in 2024 and is yet to commit his future at the San Siro. Tuesday's clash with AC Milan handed Arteta a chance to undergo a personal scouting mission on the midfielder and should the footage of the pair interacting with each other mean anything, Arsenal fans will be loving what they see.
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