Arsenal plot move for Argentina goalkeeper as they look to bolster squad - Reports
Arsenal are reportedly looking to sign Argentine goalkeeper Leandro Brey to bolster their squad in the upcoming transfer window. The 22-year-old shot-stopper currently plays for Argentine outfit Boca Juniors and has emerged as one of the most sought-after talents in the world today.
Leandro Brey moved from Los Andes to Boca Juniors for a reported transfer fee of €394,000 (via Transfermarkt) in February 2022. In just two years, the Argentine has become the go-to man in between the sticks for Xeneize, overtaking compatriot Sergio Romero.
This season, Brey has conceded just nine goals, registering five clean sheets in 12 games across competitions for his club. The Argentine was the hero of Boca Juniors' clash against Gimnasia in the Copa Argentina quarter-final on October 24 at Marcelo Bielsa Stadium. After a 1-1 draw by the end of 90 minutes, Brey saved four penalties in the shootout, helping Boca Juniors win 2-1 on penalties and qualify for the semi-final.
According to a report by Boca Noticias, Arsenal have earmarked Brey as one of their targets for the upcoming transfer window. Mikel Arteta's side reportedly want to bring in a competitor for current shot-stopper David Raya in the hope that it would improve both players.
For the Argentine, a chance to ply his trade in the Premier League would surely be alluring. Brey received a contract extension from Boca Juniors last year, keeping him at the club until the end of 2027. It will be interesting to see how the negotiation pans out in the future if Arteta's side decide to make an offer.
Arsenal identify Aston Villa striker Jhon Duran as prime transfer target: Reports
At the other end of the pitch, Arsenal have reportedly labeled Aston Villa marksman Jhon Duran as a priority transfer target. The Colombian striker joined Aston Villa from MLS side Chicago Fire FC in January 2023 for a reported transfer fee of €16.64 million (via Transfermarkt).
According to a report by AS (via Tribal Football), Jhon Duran has become a prime target for Mikel Arteta's side in the upcoming transfer window. However, Aston Villa have reportedly set a transfer fee of £75 million for the Colombian, whose contract is set to expire in June 2030.
Duran has been in fine touch this season, netting seven goals in 13 games across competitions for The Villans. He also scored Aston Villa's match-winning goal in their 1-0 home victory against Bayern Munich in the UEFA Champions League group stage (October 2).
At present, Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus are the two centre-forward options for Arteta. Jesus has yet to score a goal for Arsenal this season despite playing 11 games across competitions. Havertz, meanwhile, has scored six goals and created one more in 13 games.