ARSENAL could be searching for a creative playmaker in the transfer market with Mesut Ozil expected to leave in January.
The 32-year-old is likely to end his seven-year relationship with the club after reports his representatives are in talks with several clubs.
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And manager Mikel Arteta along with technical director Edu are eager to bring in a creative No.10 – despite Emile Smith Rowe's recent emergence.
In December, Edu told Arsenal fans’ forum: "It’s quit clear what we need. We need a player with creativity in the middle, we don’t have that in the squad right now."
Here, SunSport take a look at the FIVE most likely January arrivals to solve Arsenal's creativity issues, according to odds supplied by bookmakers Betfair.
Emi Buendia – 2/1
Emi Buendia was a standout performer for Norwich during the 2019-20 season.
The Canaries star was the fifth-highest ranking midfielder for chances created in the division – ahead of Jack Grealish and James Maddison.
And he's made no secret of his ambitions having recently said: "Returning to the Premier in the short term is a dream."
He's the bookies favourite to join Arsenal before the window closes on February 2, but Norwich's £40m valuation could prove a difficult obstacle to navigate.
Arsenal most likely midfield transfer arrivals – Betfair
- Emi Buendia – 2/1
- Houssem Aouar – 4/1
- Philippe Coutinho – 8/1
- Jack Grealish – 10/1
- Luis Alberto – 12/1
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Houssem Aouar – 4/1
He's the one all Arsenal fans want. Lyon star Houssem Aouar is priced at 4/1 to arrive in north London this month.
Aouar was a priority signing for the Gunners over the summer before they opted for Thomas Partey from Atletico Madrid instead.
The 22-year-old, who has scored and provided three this season, remains on Arsenal's radar.
However, with Lyon leading PSG in the Ligue 1 standings – Aouar is unlikely to be going anywhere until after the season.
Philippe Coutinho – 8/1
Barcelona are reportedly desperate to sell – but is anyone prepared to pay big for Philippe Coutinho?
The Brazilian international lit up the Premier League during his Liverpool days with 54 goals and 45 assists in 201 appearances.
But things haven't exactly gone to plan in Spain.
Coutinho has enjoyed somewhat of a revival under Ronald Koeman, but Barcelona are still keen to sell to ease their financial worries. He's 8/1 to arrive at the Emirates this winter.
Jack Grealish – 10/1
Ambitious.
Aston Villa star Jack Grealish is one of the most sought-after talents in European football with several clubs pursuing his signature.
Manchester United and Manchester City are both interested in the midfielder, who Villa value at £100m+.
The Gunners did make an enquiry to sign the 25-year-old last summer but didn't have the finances to lodge an offer.
Luis Alberto – 12/1
Once on the fringes at Liverpool, Luis Alberto is a stalwart for Italian side Lazio.
The 28-year-old attacker has registered 30 goals and 45 assists in 154 appearances for the Serie A challengers.
However, he's the outsider of the field at 12/1 with Betfair.
The once-capped Spain international signed a new five-year deal that expire in June 2025 last September and looks unlikely to leave the Stadio Olimpico.
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