Arteta adds creative midfield star with Prem experience to Arsenal shortlist
Arsenal have added Norwich midfielder Emiliano Buendia to their list of targets as they look for more creativity, according to reports.
The Gunners have left Mesut Ozil out of their squad for the season, and while he may have suffered a drop in form in recent years, the decision has left them short of creativity in midfield.
Even before snubbing Ozil, Mikel Arteta was on the lookout for midfield signings in the summer. He brought in Thomas Partey from Atletico Madrid, but also wanted Lyon’s Houssem Aouar.
Arsenal were unable to complete a deal for the latter, though. Therefore, they continue to be linked with him ahead of the January window.
However, Aouar has recently hinted he is happy at his boyhood club and is likely to see out the rest of the season at least. Therefore, Arsenal have had to turn their attention elsewhere.
One major target to emerge has been RB Salzburg star Dominik Szoboszlai. However, Arsenal will face a lot of competition for the Hungarian.
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With those factors in mind, they have extended their shortlist to include another name. According to football.london, they are interested in Buendia.
The Argentine was one of Norwich’s better players last season. Despite the Canaries suffering relegation, Buendia still managed to create more chances than any other player in the league other than Kevin De Bruyne and Trent Alexander-Arnold.
After Norwich were relegated, a number of clubs were linked with keeping Buendia in the Premier League. He was reportedly a target for Leeds, Aston Villa and Crystal Palace.
However, he ended up staying at Carrow Road, where he has been since 2018. But now, he could be on the radar of top flight clubs again.
Buendia already has two goals and four assists from 10 Championship appearances this season. The 23-year-old could quickly outgrow the second tier.
No formal approach from Arsenal yet
Arsenal could be a suitor for his signature if he wishes to test himself at a higher level again. However, football.london add that they are yet to make a bid.
Arteta remains fond of the player, though, so the situation could change in the coming weeks. The report says Buendia is focusing on Norwich but would be open to offers if the club listen.
In a further boost for Arsenal’s hopes of signing him, the website reminds that Buendia is represented by the same agency as former Gunners players Alexis Sanchez and Emiliano Martinez.
If Arsenal firm up their interest, they could make use of their connections with that agency to make a deal easier.
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