Arsenal have moved on from Mykhaylo Mudryk already and could now sign Rafael Leao, who's been likened to Thierry Henry
(Image credit: David Price/Arsenal FC via Getty Images)
Arsenal are already identifying a Plan B to Mykhaylo Mudryk, who the Gunners were chasing extensively before he signed for Chelsea.
The table toppers have made it clear that they are looking another attacker this month, as depth in their quest for a first title in 19 years. Mudryk of Shakhtar was the main target, with Arsenal unprepared to meet the €100 million asking price.
After the North London Derby victory, manager Mikel Arteta admitted the club are looking for new signings.
Mikel Arteta embraces Bukayo Saka after the North London Derby against Tottenham Hotspur (Image credit: James Gill - Danehouse/Getty Images)
“I am very proud to have the players we have,” Arteta said, while adding “We always want to try to improve the squad. The club are the first to try and improve the players we have.
“We have to have some discipline and be consistent in the targets we have. We can make the players better – let's focus on that.”
According to football.london, AC Milan winger Rafael Leao could be an option for the Gunners going forward. The Portuguese has been compared with Gunners legend Thierry Henry for his leggy style, pausa while dribbling and his ability to break in from the left flank – and football.london adds that he's a fan of the north Londoners.
“Experience in a new league? Yes, in the future,” the 23-year-old told RDPAfrica via Fabrizio Romano, adding “I watch many games. This year, I like Arsenal – they’re playing very well.”
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Rafael Leao warms up ahead of the match between Empoli and AC Milan (Image credit: Giuseppe Maffia/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
Leao could cost a pretty penny, however. In the past, Scudetto holders Milan have rated the star at €100m and have apparently even rejected bids of that nature in the past for their talismanic forward. With Leao's contract up in 2024, however, the Rossoneri might be tempted to part with him if they receive a good offer.
Mark White has been at on FourFourTwo since joining in January 2020, first as a staff writer before becoming content editor in 2023. An encyclopedia of football shirts and boots knowledge – both past and present – Mark has also represented FFT at both FA Cup and League Cup finals (though didn't receive a winners' medal on either occasion) and has written pieces for the mag ranging on subjects from Bobby Robson's season at Barcelona to Robinho's career. He has written cover features for the mag on Mikel Arteta and Martin Odegaard, and is assisted by his cat, Rosie, who has interned for the brand since lockdown.
