Arsenal are looking to sign a new defensive midfielder after Ghana midfielder Thomas Partey was ruled out for the rest of the year with a thigh injury, leaving the Gunners short of options in defensive midfield.
With Partey’s injury concerns growing, the Gunners have identified Sao Paulo star Maia as a viable candidate to fill the void in defensive midfield.
Maiast. is a fast rising star in Brazil. His performances this season must have impressed Arsenal sporting director Edu Gasper, who was said to be hot on the case during his rise. Edu has been keeping a close eye on the 21-year-old, who he believes has the potential to make it big in English football.
Transfermarkt value the 21-year-old at £6m, making his fee affordable enough for the Gunners to complete the move.
Exciting talent
Partey has missed several games since picking up a groin injury in Arsenal’s 2-2 draw with Fulham in August, and Declan Rice’s foray into midfield undermines his chances of being a sure-fire starter.
However, the Gunners still need depth in midfield as they compete both domestically and on the continent.
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Maia has established himself as one of the backbones of São Paulo’s midfield, protecting his defense against the attacks of the opposition. Maia has made 53 appearances for the club in all competitions this season, scoring five goals and providing two assists.
The Gunners currently have a handful of Brazilians in their squad, including Gabriel Jesus, Gabriel Martinelli and Gabriel Margalhães, who have all excelled since their arrival. The transition and blending into the Gunners’ culture and style of play won’t be much of an obstacle for Maia if Arsenal do eventually move away from Sao Paulo.