Journalist backs Arsenal to move for 'one of the top midfielders in Europe'

Arsenal could potentially pursue a move for Lyon’s Lucas Paqueta this summer, according to Pete O’Rourke.

The journalist, writing on GiveMeSport, claimed the Brazilian “is possibly the next one” on the Gunners wishlist.

Over the past week or so, Arsenal have been heavily linked with the Lyon attacking midfielder.

Reports have suggested that Arsenal have been talking with both Paqueta and his club over a move to the Emirates.

“Paqueta is a player Arteta really wants,” CBS journalist Ben Jacobs told GiveMeSport earlier this week.

“It won’t be an easy negotiation with Lyon and Newcastle have enquired, too.

“Lyon president Jean-Michel Aulas is going to hold out for at least 55m.

“(He) even asked for closer to 70m back in January.”

O’Rourke believes Paqueta could be the latest in a line of Brazilians that have arrived at Arsenal in recent years.

“Paqueta is one of the top midfielders in Europe,” he told GiveMeSport.

“Which he proved at Lyon and also on the international stage for Brazil.

“Obviously, we know how well Arsenal are connected with Brazilian players they’ve already brought in Gabriel Jesus.

“And it looks like Paqueta is possibly the next one on their list as well.”

A rumour that seems to have some legs – TBR View

Arsenal have done some great business in this window, improving their options in several areas of the squad.

Paqueta would be another top signing for the Gunners if they can get a deal over the line.

He is someone who has really impressed at the highest level, and looked ‘extraordinary‘ at times.

Lyon are tough negotiators, but Arsenal apparently have an ‘excellent’ relationship with Lyon (Media Foot).

This would stand the Gunners in good stead when it comes to negotiations.