ARSENAL are targeting a January transfer for Villarreal winger Samuel Chukwueze, according to reports.
Mikel Arteta splashed the cash in the summer but looks set to spend again with Arsenal top of the Premier League.
The Spaniard appears keen to add to his attacking options with Shakthar Donetsk winger Mykhaylo Mudryk believed to be on his shortlist.
Chukwueze has also caught the eye according to Fichajes and Villarreal could look to cash in on the Nigerian while they still have negotiating power – with his contract expiring in 2024.
The Villarreal star has been on Arsenal’s radar for several years and the Gunners missed out on the chance to sign him for just £4million in 2018.
He has since gone on to impress in LaLiga and the Champions League for the Spanish side and has caught the attention of several Premier League clubs.
Everton are considering a move for the 23-year-old but they could be beaten to his signature by Aston Villa.
That’s because Chukwueze could be keen to reunite with former manager Unai Emery after he completed the switch to Villa from Villarreal last month.
Atletico Madrid also want Chukwueze but Arsenal are the only side interested in the winger who can offer European football in the second half of the season.
Arteta’s side also look likely to qualify for the Champions League next season and would likely be able to offer Chukwueze higher wages than their Prem rivals.
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That means they could be frontrunners in the race to Chukwueze, who will likely wait until after the World Cup to make a decision about his future.
West Ham are also said to be monitoring his situation and it is possible Chukwueze could leave Villarreal in January or at the end of the season.
