1. Exequiel Palacios
Exequiel Palacios is one of the best central midfielders in European football this season, although his name is not yet known to many people. However, after each consecutive victory of Bayer Leverkusen, Palacios has been upgraded. He is entering the prime of his career at the age of 25 and is an unsung hero, helping Xabi Alonso’s team surpass Bayern Munich to win the Bundesliga championship.
It seems the Premier League is set to welcome Palacios, with Unai Emery’s Aston Villa keen to sign the Argentina international. Arsenal can also recruit Palacios, when they need a midfielder to pair with Declan Rice, in the context that Thomas Partey is constantly injured, and Jorginho is in the twilight of his career. Not only is he solid and brave in defense, Palacios can also contribute a lot to the attack, with 3 goals and 5 assists this season.
2. Tiago Santos
Ben White did admirable things when switching from the role of center-back to right-back. The English star showed great chemistry with right winger Bukayo Saka and Martin Odegaard. However, Arteta may need a right-back with a better mindset and attacking ability.
That’s why the Gunners should keep an eye on Tiago Santos. This 21-year-old player is a key factor in helping Lille compete for a ticket to the Champions League this season. He averaged 2 dribbles per match and never forgot his defensive duties.
3. Nico Williams
The Gunners need another talented winger to support Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli because they have had to rely heavily on these two young stars. And they targeted Nico Williams – a name sought after by both Chelsea and Barca.
The Athletic Bilbao star is a dynamic, intelligent winger who can play on either flank. He is a talented dribbler and great passer with 8 assists during the season. Former Arsenal midfielder Emmanuel Petit has reason to call on his former club to prioritize signing Williams.
4. Wilfried Singo
Arsenal can find a lot of quality players in Ligue 1 this upcoming summer, just like what they have done in recent years with William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhaes.
Wilfried Singo is currently emerging as a top defensive player in France’s No. 1 league. The 23-year-old Monaco player defends well, and does well when he has the ball at his feet.
5. Jonathan David
Tiago Santos’ teammate has long been heavily linked with Premier League teams. After a slow start this season, David has regained his impressive scoring form with 16 goals in Ligue 1.
Arsenal needs an excellent number 9 who can hold the ball, operate independently, link play, and do well in tight spaces and player David could be the answer. His price is also much cheaper than Victor Osimhen.