Arsenal are reportedly looking to launch a summer transfer move to sign Real Madrid midfielder Brahim Diaz.
The previous summer transfer window saw Mikel Arteta bring in two players he had knowledge of from his time as part of the coaching staff at Manchester City – Gabriel Jesus and Oleksandr Zinchenko.
Now though, with the latest summer transfer window on the way, it has been revealed that the Gunners boss has his eyes on making another reunion with someone who also has history at City.
According to a recent report from Corriere dello Sport (via Sport Witness), Arsenal are looking to open negotiations with Real and make an offer to the club to sign Diaz this summer.
After spending five years at City, the Spaniard joined Carlo Ancelotti’s side back in the 2019 summer transfer window.
In September 2020, Diaz joined AC Milan on loan for the season, only to return to the Italian club on a further two-year loan deal, which will be expiring in the summer.
With 110 appearances for Milan to his name, the 23-year-old has scored 16 goals and delivered 10 assists across all competitions.
Much to the presumed delight of Arsenal fans, the midfielder’s latest goal for his current side ultimately kicked Tottenham Hotspur out of the Champions League.
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The latest Serie A campaign has seen the former City figure show how much of a creative player he is by racking up the second-highest total of passes into the penalty area (30) and the second-highest rate of shot-creating actions per 90 minutes (4.27) at the club.
Described as a “magical” player by journalist Carlo Garganese, Diaz could certainly add some extra talent and depth to Arteta’s squad should he fancy a return to the Premier League.
However, with Martin Odegaard having the third-highest rate of shot-creating actions per 90 minutes (5.23) in the Premier League this season, the Real midfielder may struggle to take the Norwegian’s place in the team, which opens up a question about his potential playing time at the Emirates.
That said, the Spaniard displays some versatility in being able to play on the wing. This could lessen the burden on the shoulders of Bukayo Saka – who has started every Premier League game for the league leaders this term – and add some experienced depth to the Gunners’ ranks.
And with a Champions League campaign to fight for alongside a potential title defence next season, quality backup is going to be needed if Arteta’s side are to retain their competitive edge. Therefore, there is every reason Diaz could become a vital part of the squad.