Arsenal news: Mikel Arteta takes ‘formal steps’ to £43m transfer as giants braced for bid

Arsenal are being linked with a number of players in the January transfer window, as Mikel Arteta’s men continue to fight on four fronts for silverware this season

If the opening fortnight of January has taught the football world anything, it’s to expect the unexpected.

So far, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has been tight-lipped about the prospect of any transfer business being carried out this month. The Gunners are competing on four fronts and travel to Stamford Bridge for the first leg of their League Cup semi-final against Chelsea on Wednesday night.

But in the background, the north Londoners are being linked with football stars across Europe and the world. They may even be able to take advantage of the uncertainty at Real Madrid, caused by the sudden exit of Xabi Alonso. Here’s all the latest transfer news from the Emirates.

Move awaits Real Madrid star

Spanish outlet Defensa Central has claimed Arsenal are considering a move for Real Madrid prodigy Arda Guler.

The young Turkish midfielder played an enormous role under Alonso, before the ex-Bayer Leverkusen manager departed the club after the defeat to Barcelona in the Super Copa final, reports the Mirror.

Under Carlo Ancelotti, Guler did not have the same level of trust as he had under Alonso. Now the former Liverpool midfielder has left the Bernabeu, it’s been claimed the 20-year-old star is waiting to see what his role will be under the incoming Alvaro Arbeloa, who was placed in charge having managed the Spanish giants’ reserve team.

In the midst of all this, it’s reported Arsenal are contemplating making a move for him. If Arbeloa decides not to rely heavily on Guler, Arteta’s team could be in prime position to sign one of Europe’s most promising young talents, with whom they have been linked before.

Teen sensation

Arsenal are reportedly eyeing a January swoop for teen sensation Ayyoub Bouaddi from Lille, as per RMC Sport.

The French Moroccan made his professional debut at just 16 and quickly made a name for himself on the European stage. Now 18, he holds the record for being the youngest player in Lille’s history to feature in European competition, having played in the Europa Conference League at the age of 16.

Arsenal, along with Paris Saint-Germain, Chelsea and Real Madrid, are said to be monitoring the teenage midfielder, who is valued at over £43m.

It’s suggested Arsenal have taken ‘formal steps’ towards signing him this month, but it remains to be seen whether Lille will be willing to let him go so soon.

Brazil wonderkid

Meanwhile, reports from Brazil suggest Arsenal have expressed interest in Corinthians’ young star Breno Bidon. TNT Sports Brasil reports the Gunners have reached out to the Brazilian club to enquire about his availability.

The young star has already racked up 56 appearances for Corinthians and was instrumental in Brazil’s record-breaking 13th South American Under-20 Championship victory.

While Arsenal have not yet tabled a formal offer for the talented player, who reportedly has an £86million release clause in his contract, their ongoing dialogue with the club indicates a keen interest.

Sporting Lisbon are said to have had a £13m bid for the Manchester United and Arsenal target rejected, as the Brazilian outfit are reportedly holding out for a minimum of £26m.