Arsenal ‘prepare’ double Serie A deal to give Arteta burst of firepower

The common consensus is that Arteta is gradually putting Arsenal back on the right track. However, recent results and off-field issues have indicated there will be bumps and bruises along the way.

Indeed, the Gunners had lost three of four going into their clash with Southampton on Saturday.

The news of a Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang disciplinary breach deprived Arsenal of their main centre-forward for the tie. Nonetheless, a commanding 3-0 victory ensured the striker was not missed.

However, speculation is swirling over Aubameyang’s status at the club. The Mirror highlighted one player who could take the captain’s armband if Aubameyang is stripped. His sharp decline in form could also see the Gunners explore a surprise sale.

Alexandre Lacaztte and Eddie Nketiah are due to depart when their contracts expire next summer. That will leave Arteta short of firepower up top, though that could be remedied in January.

That’s according to Spanish outlet Tódófíchájés, who suggest a double deal is on. In their words, Arsenal are ready to ‘prepare a double signing’ from the Old Lady.

They report Swedish winger Dejan Kulusevski could switch clubs with Juventus on board with a move.

An initial loan deal is touted with a view to a permanent move in the summer. That type of deal echoes a previous report from Goal who stated the option would be set at around €35m.

La Repubblica claimed last week that Arsenal chief Edu was due to arrive in Turin this week to open Kulusevski negotiations.

Kulusevski to be joined by Ramsey?

According to Tódófíchájés, ex-Gunner Aaron Ramsey could also be targeted.

Ramsey is speculated to be open to returning to the Emirates where he enjoyed his greatest success. Since arriving at Juventus in 2019, the Welshman’s career has stalled.

Ramsey made his name in north London as a classy, goal scoring midfielder. He could compete with the likes of Martin Odegaard in the No 10 position, or could operate further back in a box-to-box role. Either way, his experience would be invaluable to Arteta’s young side.

Another loan with an option to buy is touted and Juve would find offloading both stars ‘extremely satisfactory’. A €40m-€45m sum is stated as being required to seal both deals via their options in the summer. That would suggest Ramsey will cost €5m-€10m.

Newcastle and Everton are also believed to be among those chasing Ramsey in January.

Arsenal urged to snap up “real leader”

Meanwhile, Arsenal have been told to do all in their power to secure the January signing of Georginio Wijnaldum as he would prove a “real leader” and a true difference maker.

The ex-Liverpool favourite’s move to PSG has not worked out as planned with game-time at a premium. Indeed, our exclusive highlighted the posibility of Wijnaldum returning to the Premier League.

Now, speaking to Football Insider, Danny Mills reckons Wijnaldum can prove a difference-maker to their midfield.

“If you could get him it would be a fantastic signing,” Mills said.

“Why wouldn’t you take him? He’s proven that he’s a really good player with experience of winning things. He could make a real difference to that midfielder. If you could get him it would be a fantastic signing and a real leader.

“Even if it’s on loan until the end of the season, I think it would be a good signing.”