Arsenal are considering a move for Monaco midfielder Youssouf Fofana with Mikel Arteta understood to be a big fan of the Frenchman.
Thomas Partey’s injury problems will likely tempt Arsenal into signing another midfielder in January.
Aston Villa star Douglas Luiz has been heavily linked but reports in November suggested that Arsenal are now looking at cheaper options.
The Gunners are going for the Premier League title but having spent big money on Declan Rice, Jurrien Timber and Kai Havertz, Arsenal may avoid going for Luiz.
Arsenal now want Monaco midfielder Youssouf Fofana
The Mirror now report that Youssouf Fofana is one name that could enter Arsenal’s thinking ahead of the January window.
It’s stated that Monaco are prepared to listen to offers for Fofana because his contract expires in 2025.
Monaco may feel that the time is right to sell as Fofana heads towards the final 18 months of his deal, potentially suiting Arsenal’s budget.
The report claims that Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta is a big fan of Fofana and was even spotted speaking to him after the Emirates Cup clash with Monaco in August.
Fofana scored in that game and Arteta hasn’t forgotten about him, potentially paving the way for a January move.
Who is Arsenal target Fofana?
Fofana spent time in the famed Clairefontaine academy in France but ended up delivering pizzas in France.
After putting his football career on hold, Fofana joined the ranks of Red Star and Drancy before heading to Strasbourg in 2017.
Fofana rose from the B team to the first team and performed so well that Monaco snapped him up in January 2020.
The 24-year-old has now racked up more than 150 appearances for Monaco and 15 caps for France, coming a long, long way in the space of just a few years.
Compared to N’Golo Kante by ex-Newcastle United defender Olivier Bernard, Fofana could add more competition in Arsenal’s midfield ranks without breaking the bank.
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