Arsenal can sign ‘perfect’ Declan Rice partner with $55m transfer as FFP concern

Talk of Arsenal signing a new striker has continued over the last few weeks, yet you wouldn’t be wrong to presume that Mikel Arteta’s immediate focus is on signing a new midfielder this January.

In the past 12 months, Declan Rice, Kai Havertz and Jorginho have all arrived to improve the Gunners’ options in the middle of the park. Moises Caicedo and Romeo Lavia were both on Arteta’s radar but Chelsea paid a combined £173million for the pair of them.

Thomas Partey’s continued injury problems means another midfielder could be signed at the Emirates Stadium in January. And according to reports, Everton star Amadou Onana, valued at €50million ($55.4m) by CIES Football Observatory, is one of three options on Arteta’s shortlist – alongside Joao Palhinha and Douglas Luiz.

According to the Mail Online [via Metro], the versatile midfielder is ‘being watched closely’ by the Premier League leaders. Onana cost the Toffees £33million in 2022 and it’s likely that Sean Dyche’s men will demand close to double that figure.

football.london’s Josh Holland says: I’ve been impressed with Onana when I’ve watched him. A tall, physical presence in the middle of the park, the Belgium international would be a smart investment by Arsenal.

At only 22, there’s plenty of development for him to grow into, Onana has already showcased his ability to perform in the Premier League. I personally have doubts over Partey and how much Arsenal can rely on him, so the option to move for one of the most-talented youngsters in England is a popular one here.

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He’s only been at Goodison Park for a short period and his actions after netting in the 2-0 win over Burnley show he’s got his head in the right place. The Gunners are right considering him.

For Arsenal to invest next month, they may have to make the tough decision and sell some of their current players to ensure they stay in line with Financial Fair Play regulations.

Many have been linked with exits, including Jakub Kiwior and Jorginho, but Eddie Nketiah could be one that is sold for a specific reason. The striker, who has scored 38 goals for the club, continues to be Arteta’s second choice this season behind Gabriel Jesus.

Given that he’s an academy product, any funds raised will be registered as pure profit in terms of FFP accountancy. The Daily Mail have claimed that the Gunners have already turned down at least one enquiry for Nketiah, but teams are expected to line-up this winter.

football.london’s Josh Holland says: You have to feel for Nketiah. When called-upon, he provided the goods and come up clutch for Arteta’s men. But Gabriel Jesus’ tactical ability and strength to his game makes him a valuable option in the centre-forward.

However, sitting on the bench…