Arsenal are reportedly planning a January move for Palmeiras centre-back Luiz Benedetti to bolster their defensive options. They had interest in the summer but could not agree on a fee with Palmeiras, who want €15 million for the 19-year-old. Barcelona are also interested. Benedetti is open to a move to Europe and Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta admires him.
Arsenal are reportedly preparing a January move for Palmeiras centre-back Luiz Benedetti, according to reports. The Gunners are keen to bolster their defensive options and have identified the young Brazilian as a potential target.
The North London club made significant additions to their squad during the recent summer transfer window, bringing in eight new players. Among them were Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapie, both central defenders, aimed at strengthening the team's backline. However, Arsenal's pursuit of defensive reinforcements appears far from over, as they continue to be linked with several other centre-backs.
Arsenal had expressed interest in Benedetti during the summer, but they were unable to agree on a fee with Palmeiras. The Gunners were reportedly willing to offer €10 million for the 19-year-old, but the Brazilian club were holding out for €15 million. Despite failing to secure his services in the summer, Arsenal are expected to renew their interest in January.
Barcelona are also said to be interested in Benedetti, but they too were unwilling to meet Palmeiras' asking price. The Catalan giants are also in the market for a new centre-back, but they are currently prioritising other targets. However, they could revive their interest in Benedetti if they fail to land their primary targets.
Benedetti is considered to be one of the most promising young defenders in Brazil. He is known for his composure on the ball, his aerial ability, and his tackling skills. He has represented Brazil at youth level and is tipped to have a bright future in the game. He is under contract with Palmeiras until 2027, but he is open to a move to Europe.
Speaking about a potential move to Europe, Benedetti said: "I am very happy at Palmeiras, but I would be open to a move to Europe if the right opportunity came along. I want to follow in the footsteps of Vitor Reis, who joined Manchester City last winter."
Arsenal's manager, Mikel Arteta, is a known admirer of Benedetti and believes that he has the potential to become a top player. The Spanish coach is keen to add more quality to his squad and sees the Brazilian as a valuable addition. Arsenal have been monitoring Benedetti's progress for some time and have been impressed with his performances. The club's scouts have been regular attendees at Palmeiras' games, and they have provided glowing reports on the young defender.
The potential arrival of Benedetti would provide Arsenal with greater depth in central defense. The Gunners have struggled with injuries to key defenders in recent seasons, and Arteta is keen to ensure that he has adequate cover in that area. Benedetti would compete with the likes of William Saliba, Gabriel Magalhães, Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapie for a place in the starting lineup.
Arsenal's willingness to invest in young talent is a clear indication of their long-term strategy. The club are keen to build a squad capable of competing for major honors in the years to come, and they believe that acquiring promising youngsters is key to achieving that goal. Benedetti fits the profile of player that Arsenal are looking for: young, talented, and with the potential to improve.
The January transfer window promises to be an interesting one for Arsenal fans. The potential arrival of Luiz Benedetti would be a welcome addition to the squad, further strengthening the team's defensive capabilities. With the Gunners aiming to compete on all fronts, securing the services of the talented Brazilian could prove to be a shrewd move.