Arsenal have been heavily linked with a move for Declan Rice for most of the summer and have already reportedly had two bids turned down for the midfielder.
That has seemingly ignited a bidding war as Manchester City have also been linked with a move to the West Ham captain. With Ilkay Gundogan poised to leave for Barcelona, Pep Guardiola will be desperate to ensure his midfield remains strong heading into the new season.
That ultimately could scupper Arsenal’s move for Rice, leaving them needing to seek alternative options should the 24-year-old opt for a move to the North-West.
With that in mind, here are three alternative midfielders Arsenal could look to add to their side this summer.
Three alternative midfielders to Declan Rice Arsenal could target this summer.
Moises Caciedo
Caciedo has already been heavily linked with a move to the Emirates, with Arsenal coming close to landing the Ecuadorian last January.
The move failed to materialise though, with Arsenal possibly looking at Rice as an alternative. However, they face competition from Chelsea who are also rumoured to be looking to push for the 23-year-old signature this summer.
Caciedo has played a key role for Brighton over the last two years and a move to a side playing Champions League football could be a significant motivation to choose Arsenal.
Edson Alvarez
Alvarez has thrived in his time at Ajax and with a contract until 2025, he could be a low-cost alternative to Rice.
Alvarez sits on the scale of a progressive passer as opposed to a ball-winning midfielder. With Rice offering a full package, there is the potential need to add a ball-winner alongside the Mexican international.
But considering the potential cut-price value Alvarez would be available for, the Gunners might have room in the budget to add another into the midfield.
Amadou Onana
Onana has excelled for Everton in what has been an incredibly desperate season for the Toffees.
The 21-year-old fits the mould at Arsenal in that he’s young with time to develop and at 6ft 4, he offers a physical, mobile presence the team is lacking.
The midfielder averaged 2.2 tackles per game last season according to WhoScored highlighting his ability to provide the protective shield to overturn possession for Arteta’s side.
