Arsenal Initiates Discussions to Acquire England Superstar This January: Report
Arsenal have initiated discussions regarding a significant signing for the upcoming winter transfer window, which would send a clear message about the club’s ambitions.
The Gunners seem to be regaining their form with the return of not only Martin Odegaard but also Riccardo Calafiori and Jurrien Timber as full-backs. Mikel Arteta’s team showcased their prowess by defeating Sporting 5-1 in the Champions League this week, establishing an important precedent as the season progresses.
However, as Arsenal faces West Ham United this weekend as Premier League action resumes, it seems Arteta is seeking to bolster his squad with a major January acquisition.
Arsenal have begun negotiations for their first January signing
Historically, January is a quieter period for Arsenal in terms of transfers. The club typically makes signings only if unique opportunities arise, rather than actively seeking to bolster their squad.
Players like Leandro Trossard and Jorginho were acquired in winter transfers that materialized by chance – but with injuries in the Premier League accumulating for the Gunners, Arsenal may end up bringing in a key squad member, which could ironically affect Jorginho’s playing time.
CaughtOffside reports that negotiations have started between the north London club and Crystal Palace regarding the potential signing of Adam Wharton, merely a year after the Eagles brought in the midfielder from Blackburn Rovers.
Wharton had a remarkable debut season in the Premier League with the Eagles, securing a place in Gareth Southgate’s Euro 2024 squad with England – but with Oliver Glasner’s Palace struggling this season, Wharton has been less impactful, hindered by injury as well.
This summer, Arsenal added Mikel Merino to enhance their midfield, positioning him as a natural fit in the left-sided central midfield, where Declan Rice has been shifted since his arrival. The tactical plan may see Rice revert to a No.6 position, with Merino or Wharton playing as a No.8 alongside Odegaard.
Both Jorginho and Thomas Partey are on contracts ending this season, which positions Arsenal to potentially leverage the January window for strategic signings. Liverpool and Manchester City are reportedly keen on Wharton as well, with Arsenal potentially looking to gain the upper hand.
While the 20-year-old could serve as an excellent replacement for Partey, eScored indicates that Palace may prefer to keep their star player during this challenging season. Given their position in the relegation zone, losing a key player mid-season could have dire consequences.
Wharton has an estimated market value of €30 million, according to Transfermarkt.
