Arsenal now fancy signing ‘very gifted’ midfielder with £26.5m release clause

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Arsenal fancy signing Ibrahima Bamba and have made their interest in the Vitoria Guimaraes midfielder known after scouting him.

The Gunners are likely to be in the market for a holding midfielder in 2023.

Whether that comes in January or the summer is unclear, but Edu will be putting names together for a potential signing.

Mohamed Elneny could be on his way in the summer and Thomas Partey needs natural cover in the holding midfield role.

Palmeiras star Danilo appears to be a key target with Aston Villa ace Douglas Luiz surely off the radar after signing a new contract.

Arsenal fancy signing Ibrahima Bamba

A new name has entered the mix and it’s one that many won’t have heard of at this stage.

The Mirror claim that Arsenal are keeping close tabs on Vitoria Guimaraes anchor man Ibrahima Bamba.

It’s stated that Vitoria have been made aware of Arsenal’s interest with the Gunners making their first move by asking to be kept informed about their plans.

If Vitoria choose to sell Bamba, Arsenal want to know about it in order to enter the race themselves.

Bamba is allegedly valued at around £26.5million thanks to a release clause in a new contract he only signed earlier this season.

Atalanta and Villarreal are both understood to be keen on Bamba too, meaning Arsenal face something of a fight even if a January move isn’t considered likely.

Who is Ibrahima Bamba?

Bamba, 20, was born in Italy but can also play for the Ivory Coast on the international stage.

Over in Italy, Tuttomercatoweb have called Bamba ‘very gifted’ after finding his way onto the radar of Italy national team boss Roberto Mancini.

Bamba emerged in the ranks of Pro Vercelli in Italy’s lower leagues before Vitoria pounced for him in 2020.

Now a first-team regular in Portugal, Bamba has played 12 league games this season and has been utilised at centre back and in holding midfield.

That versatility may well appeal to Arsenal and the 20-year-old may be viewed as an enormous talent for the future with Edu always looking for prospects.