Arsenal are poised to make a blockbuster move for a €75m Barcelona star, as Mikel Arteta seeks to elevate the Gunners.
The North London club has bolstered its squad with key signings, including Martin Zubimendi and Christian Norgaard, who have added depth and dynamism to an already formidable midfield alongside Declan Rice.
Zubimendi, in particular, has hit the ground running, scoring twice in a 3-0 rout of Nottingham Forest, signaling Arsenal’s ambition to compete at the highest level.
Yet, despite this strengthened roster, Arteta appears to be plotting another audacious move in the transfer market, targeting a high-profile midfielder from one of Europe’s elite clubs to elevate the team’s creativity and Champions League credentials.
The player in question is Barcelona’s Frenkie de Jong, a 28-year-old Dutch international whose contract situation has sparked speculation.
With his deal set to expire in summer 2026, Barcelona faces the prospect of losing him for free if no extension is agreed upon.
Reports from Fichajes suggest that club president Joan Laporta, wary of financial pressures, may opt to sell the midfielder, initially signed for €75m (£65.7m) from Ajax in 2019, at a reduced fee in January 2026.
Arsenal are closely monitoring the situation, drawn by de Jong’s elite passing and ball-carrying abilities, which rank him in the 98th percentile for passes completed and 92nd percentile for progressive carries among European midfielders.
De Jong’s potential arrival could transform Arsenal’s midfield, complementing Rice and Zubimendi with his vision and experience, including two La Liga titles and a Copa del Rey.
However, with Norgaard nearing a return from injury and Zubimendi’s seamless adaptation, some question whether Arsenal needs another midfielder.
Interest from the Saudi Pro League adds competition, but de Jong’s preference for European football could favor Arsenal.
As Arteta eyes a statement signing, de Jong represents a bold step toward Premier League and Champions League glory.
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