Arsenal eyeing transfer for Luiz Benedetti

Arsenal could pursue a second central defender during the summer transfer window.

The Gunners have already bolstered the central defensive department with the purchase of Cristhian Mosquera from La Liga outfit Valencia.

However, there could be more activity before the transfer deadline, with reports that Jakub Kiwior could be on his way out if the right offer arrives.

Brazilian journalist Diego Firmino has now revealed that Arsenal are one of the clubs chasing the signature of Palmeiras centre-back Luiz Benedetti.

The Gunners already have the approval from manager Mikel Arteta, but have yet to make a formal proposal on the table for the promising teenager.

Arsenal looking at Benedetti after Vitor Reis setback

The London giants were keeping a close eye on the progress of Vitor Reis at Palmeiras last year, but Manchester City beat them to his signature in January.

The 19-year-old was described as a first-team signing for the Cityzens at the time, but he has been loaned out to sister club Girona for the 2025/26 campaign.

Reis’ former teammate Luiz Benedetti was also linked with a move to Europe last winter, and it seems Arsenal are now favourites to secure a deal for him.

The teenager has only nine competitive appearances for Palmeiras thus far, but he has caught the eye with his strong distribution skills and ability to win regular duels.

Benedetti has completed 93 percent of his passes in the Brazilian top-flight, winning 70 percent of his duels. He has a towering presence with his height of 197cm.

He has also impressed with his recoveries and ability to clear his lines. He does not shy away from the odd tackle and looks to be a centre-back with immense potential.

Benedetti has a contract until December 2029, and Arsenal will no doubt need to pay a sizeable fee to persuade Palmeiras, given City signed Reis for an initial £29.5 million.

In our view, Arsenal could make an approach for the aggressive left-footed centre-back if Kiwior were to push for a fresh challenge to play regular first-team football.

Stats from Transfermarkt.com & Sofascore.com

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