Arsenal set for transfer breakthrough over Brazil midfielder

Cameron Smith

• 8 Nov 2022 11:06 CST
• 3 min read

Arsenal's hopes of signing Palmeiras youngster Danilo have been given a major boost with news the Brazilian club are looking at signing a replacement for the midfielder.

Danilo, 21, is yet to win his first senior Brazil cap and was left out of their 2022 World Cup squad, but is very highly rated in his homeland and a move to Europe is expected imminently.

Mikel Arteta's side have expressed an interest in signing him, with the Gunners looking to strengthen their options in the middle of the park.

READ: Mudryk 'is already at Arsenal' as Arteta targets new 'level' of transfers

According to reports, Arsenal are looking at signing him as early as during the January transfer window, rather than wait until the 2023 summer window.

His current deal at Palmeiras doesn't expire until 2026, meaning it may be a challenge to pry him from their grasp, but Arteta's team are confident of landing their man.

Danilo to Arsenal?

According to Bola VIP, Arsenal are confident of signing him in the winter window, and are keen to integrate him into the side as soon as possible. The Gunners currently sit top of the Premier League and look set to challenge Manchester City for the title this season.

READ: The five highest-valued Brazilians to miss out on World Cup squad

Furthermore, Champions League football looks set to return to the Emirates Stadium which may aid Arsenal's cause in persuading Danilo to join the club.

In addition, Bola VIP have reported that Palmeiras have lined up former Gremio midfielder and current Udinese star Walace as their ideal replacement for Danilo.

It's understood that Walace is keen to return to Brazil after leaving his homeland to play in Europe back in 2017 when he joined Hamburg. Walace has five senior Brazil caps and according to the report would fit in with Palmeiras' current system.

As a result, Arsenal's hopes of signing the 21-year-old Danilo have vastly improved with Palmeiras seemingly acknowledging the fact he won't be at the club for much longer.

It's believed that Danilo will provide competition for Thomas Partey if Arsenal are able to get the deal over the line as is expected.