- EXCLUSIVE from Graeme Bailey
HITC understands that Arsenal are keeping close tabs on the progress of FC Midtjylland forward Franculino Dju.
The 19-year-old, who hails from Guinea-Bissau, came through Benfica’s academy and was highly regarded – but he was frustrated with his chances.
He rejected a new deal in Portugal and moved to Denmark on a three-year deal in the summer and has emerged as a huge talent.
Alongside Arsenal, who are currently sitting top of the Premier League table, Ajax, PSV Eindhoven and Borussia Dortmund are amongst the clubs who have watched Franculino Dju in recent months.
HITC understands that Arsenal’s scouts have been hugely impressed with what they have seen from the 6ft forward.
Franculino Dju’s current season at FC Midtjylland
The versatile teenager has 12 goals and five assists from 23 matches in all competitions for FC Midtjylland, including a hat-trick in the Europa Conference League quailers.
HITC understands that Franculino is already being closely followed by some of Europe’s top clubs – who were all aware of him before his move to Midtjylland.
The Guinea-Bissau star can play across the frontline, but is considered a central striker.
The majority of his games this term have been at centre forward, with others scattered as a second striker or on the right wing.
Mikel Arteta’s attacking options
Gabriel Jesus has been the main man at Arsenal following his summer move from Manchester City in 2022.
But, with the Brazil star’s injuries being never-ending, Kai Havertz has deployed that role for large months in recent months, including scoring in his last four consecutive Premier League matches.
The back-up option is Hale-End star Eddie Nketiah, but he has been limited to zero starts since the turn of the year.
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