Now we’re into December, we are tantalisingly close to the January transfer window. For Arsenal, that could prove a particularly crucial time.

Although Arsene Wenger typically prefers to do his business in the summer, the recent spate of injuries at Arsenal may leave him little choice. Having neglected to make an outfield signing last summer, Wenger may be forced into adding a new recruit in January. The Gunners boss has already admitted his intentions, per David Hytner of the Guardian: “We are in a position where we want to do something. If I find the right quality, I will do something.”

In this piece, we examine the likelihood of three recent Arsenal rumours coming to pass.

 

Riyad Mahrez

Leicester playmaker Riyad Mahrez has been one of the Premier League’s most impressive players this season, so it’s no great surprise that he finds his name linked with some of the biggest clubs in England.

According to French outlet Foot365, Arsenal are one of the clubs in pursuit of the Algerian international this winter (h/t Metro‘s Will Giles). His imaginative style would certainly fit well with Arsenal’s intricate approach play, and the prospect of him combining with the likes of Mesut Ozil and Alexis Sanchez is an appealing one.

However, Arsenal don’t necessarily need Mahrez. In January, Jack Wilshere is expected to return to fitness, and it’s more likely Wenger will seek to incorporate the academy product into this XI than add a new attacking midfielder to Arsenal’s ranks. Mahrez may well be in demand come January, but Arsenal are unlikely to be one of the clubs fighting for his signature.

Verdict: False.

 

Ruben Neves

Arsenal’s greatest need is arguably for a defensive midfielder. With Francis Coquelin set to be sidelined until February at the earliest, the club’s lack of appropriate back-up has been exposed. Neither Mathieu Flamini nor Mikel Arteta convince as understudies, so Wenger may be forced onto the market.

The man being mentioned most frequently as a potential target is Porto’s Ruben Neves. Liam Corless of the Mirror reported they have already made sure to watch him in person:

Arsenal are lining up a £22million move for Porto defensive midfielder Ruben Neves, according to reports.

The Gunners want to sign the 18-year-old as cover for Francis Coquelin who has been ruled out for three months with a knee injury.

Scouts from the north London club have already been to watch Neves on a number of occasions this campaign.

While Neves’ age does not make him an obvious candidate to come into the team straight away, Wenger is known to be a manager who specialises in developing young talent. Given the need for a new holding midfielder who can provide long-term cover and competition for Coquelin, Neves seems a plausible target.

Verdict: True

 

Mauro Icardi

Jamie Sanderson of Metro reported on claims from Spanish outlet Fichajes that Arsenal are working on a £35 million deal for Inter Milan forward Mauro Icardi.

Inter are currently in second place in Serie A, and Icardi’s all-round performances have played a crucial role in their assault on the title.

However, it’s difficult to envisage Wenger moving for a forward in January. By then, Danny Welbeck should join Theo Walcott and Olivier Giroud in contention for a first-team place. That ought to be enough firepower to see Arsenal through until the end of the season.

Verdict: False

 

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