Arsenal ready to make a surprise offer for De Ligt

English vice-champions Arsenal are reportedly preparing a surprising offer for Bayern Munich’s center-back Matthijs de Ligt, according to The Athletic. However, the report suggests that this is more likely to happen in January. A more realistic scenario is that the transfer will take place in the summer.

Manager Mikel Arteta has been vocal about his desire to bring in new players during the winter, but the club is facing financial fair play challenges and may be limited in its choices. Their high expenditures, especially for Declan Rice, mean they will have to balance their finances. It should not be forgotten that Arsenal also needs to exercise the option to buy goalkeeper David Raya, who was signed on loan for £27 million next summer due to the mandatory clause in the contract.

The Athletic adds that strengthening the defense remains a priority for the Gunners in January, but new players may also be sought for other positions. One such position is midfield, as Thomas Partey will be absent due to his participation in the African Cup of Nations with Ghana.

Mikel Arteta’s coaching staff at Arsenal admire Bayern Munich’s Matthijs de Ligt and Borussia Dortmund’s Nico Schlotterbeck, but the price-point and contract situation of both players make them infeasible January deals [@TheAthleticFC] pic.twitter.com/jkcJOOztSV

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In addition to De Ligt, Arsenal may also consider a move for Borussia Dortmund’s Nico Schlotterbeck. However, the prices for both players could potentially delay their transfers until the summer. The London club is also interested in Ajax’s 17-year-old center-back, Jurriën Timber, who captained his team this season and played for the Dutch national team. However, acquiring Timber may not come cheap, making a loan deal for a defender the most convenient option.