Arsenal are now showing an interest in signing Sao Paulo talent Pablo Maia as Edu looks to bring a new midfielder to North London.
Pablo Maia is the latest Brazilian ace to be linked with a move to Arsenal.
TEAMtalk report that Arsenal are looking at Maia as a potential January addition.
Thomas Partey is expected to miss the rest of 2023 and his continued injury problems mean Arsenal want more depth.
We have seen Fluminense star Andre and Aston Villa ace Douglas Luiz linked with Arsenal, but another Brazilian is now in the mix.
Arsenal targeting Pablo Maia
TEAMtalk claim that Arsenal are now interested in Sao Paulo talent Maia with Edu looking towards the Brazilian market.
Edu knows all about the top talents emerging in his homeland and Maia now appears to be a target.
Edu hails from Sao Paulo himself, so will certainly be aware of the quality and potential Maia possesses.
The 21-year-old has racked up more than 100a appearances for Sao Paulo, predominantly playing as a defensive midfielder.
Maia has yet to earn a Brazil cap, but has been compared to former Liverpool anchor man Fabinho by South American football expert Tim Vickery.
That may well appeal to Arsenal, but Maia has received other Premier League interest in recent times…
West Ham United failed to sign Maia last season
West Ham were particularly keen on Maia having also moved to sign defender Luizao from Sao Paulo.
The Hammers attempted a loan deal with an option to buy Maia, but Sao Paulo completely rejected that idea.
Now thought to be valued at around £13million, Maia could finally end up in the Premier League with Arsenal.
That price tag wouldn’t break the bank for Arsenal and would make him much cheaper than compatriots Andre or Douglas Luiz.
Arsenal allegedly have a cap of £30million for this potential midfield signing and Maia would fit into the budget for Edu and Mikel Arteta.
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