Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta is counting on signing Barcelona midfielder Philippe Coutinho this summer.
The Times says the Spaniard has his eyes set on moving his side to a 4-3-3 formation ahead of next season.
But strengthening his midfield options is vital to make that happen – and Coutinho is amongst those earmarked in a key role in his planned new system.
Granit Xhaka and Dani Ceballos largely formed his first-choice midfield pair but there is no doubt it is an area Arteta is keen to strengthen.
It is claimed he wants Atletico Madrid midfielder Thomas Partey and Coutinho to come into the side, with Partey set to play a box to box role whilst Coutinho adds creativity behind their front-three.
Chelsea star Willian is also on their radar as a free transfer and capable of adding plenty of cover to the wide positions.
COMMENTS