Arsenal have ‘four-man shortlist’ if Liverpool beat them to Andre transfer

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Arsenal have reportedly drawn up a four-man shortlist as they look to strengthen their midfield in the January transfer window. The Gunners have identified Fluminense star Andre Trindade as a top target, though numerous clubs are also keen on the playmaker – including Jurgen Klopp’s Liverpool.

After finishing second in the Premier League last season, Mikel Arteta was keen to improve his squad over the summer to challenge for the title again this season and splashed the cash on several top-quality acquisitions. Adding depth and quality to his midfield ranks was one of the Spaniard’s key objectives throughout the transfer window, with Declan Rice and Kai Havertz both viewed as potential title-winning acquisitions.

But with Thomas Partey and Jorginho both heavily linked with exits from the Emirates Stadium, Arsenal have made signing another midfielder a priority heading into the winter window. Brazilian playmaker Andre is among those eyed, with Arsenal having made an effort to sign the 22-year-old in the summer.

Fluminense, however, were not willing to entertain offers whilst their Copa Libertadores campaign was still ongoing and instead insisted that they would facilitate his exit in January. Liverpool are also particularly keen on the Brazil international, with other top European outfits monitoring his situation from afar as well.

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If Arsenal fail to secure the signature of the sought-after star, 90min reports that they will fall back on a four-man shortlist of alternatives. Aston Villa midfielder Douglas Luiz is said to still remain a target in north London, and his sensational start to the season has prompted the Gunners to reignite their long-standing interest in the Brazilian.

Valencia’s Javier Guerra is also admired by Arteta and scouts have been sent to watch his performances in the La Liga over the past few months after he broke into the first-team last season. Similarly, Quinten Timber of Feyenoord – the brother of Arsenal’s summer signing Jurrien Timber – is being closely watched too and there is a possibility that the siblings could link up at the Emirates in the future.

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The Gunners are reportedly among the growing list of suitors for Royal Antwerp star Arthur Vermeeren as well. Barcelona are pushing to strike a deal for the Belgium international as soon as possible and view him as their long-term No 6 at the Nou Camp, but the race for the 18-year-old remains wide open.

With 50 senior appearances already under his belt, the teenager is highly regarded by Arsenal and Arteta is said to be willing to green-light a move for the Royal Antwerp star if he is forced to scour the market for alternative options to Andre.

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