Arsenal Transfer News: Gunners Linked With Midfield Duo

With the January transfer window now open for business we’ll be keeping you up-to-date with all the latest transfer gossip. Today, news on Yann M’Vila and Lewis Holtby.

M’Vila back on?

We’re just days into the January transfer window and things are starting to hot up. First-up, the Independent are once again linking us with a possible move for Rennes midfielder Yann M’Vila.

I’m sure many Arsenal fans will remember the rumours over a possible move to the Emirates in the summer but after his disciplinary issues at the Euro’s, any potential move failed to materialise and M’Vila remained in Ligue 1.

However, the Independent suggest that Arsenal may renew their interest after the player admitted he’s open to a move away from Rennes and if a good offer came in, there is ‘no doubt’ he would move.

“I am at Rennes at the moment so let’s see what happens,”

“If the club receive a good offer and I like the destination then I will go, there is no doubt about that. Until that happens, nothing can be said.”

M’Vila is quoted as saying in the Independent

As I’ve said for months now, I think Arsenal are in need of a powerful ball-winning midfielder so I wouldn’t be adverse to us going in for M’Vila. He’s certainly talented and he’d be eligible to play in the Champions League during the second half of the season.

The Independent suggest he would cost around £12m, which would be within Arsene’s price-range, so the only problem may be Wenger’s concerns over his temperament.

Holtby watched

Next up is Lewis Holtby with Arsene Wenger confirming he’s watching the Schalke midfielder, according to Sky Sports.

Holtby is out of contract in the summer and is free to agree a pre-contract agreement with foreign clubs this month ahead of a free transfer summer move, and Arsene has confirmed he’s on his radar.

“The emerging countries to produce players look to be Germany and Spain and they have many good young players,” he said.

“When you look at the results of France against Germany at U17 in the last few years, and U16 – 4-0, 4-1 to Germany – that shows the trend will be more in favour of the Germans.

“We have looked at Holtby, and have played against him.

“Our scouts are kept on alert and the quality of the scouting is linked with that.” Wenger is quoted as saying by Sky Sports News

I was impressed with Holtby’s performance during Schalke’s 2-0 win over us at the Emirates in the Champions League this season and he looks like he’d be a great addition, especially on a free.

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But of the two players linked above, I think M’Vila would be the best signing. We badly need a big powerful midfielder to compliment the likes of Cazorla, Wilshere and Arteta so I hope we go for the Rennes man – or someone similar – this month.

Who would you like to see come to the Emirates in January? Get involved in the comments section below.