As the January transfer window looms, rumors have resurfaced about Arsenal's interest in securing the services of Douglas Luiz. Technical Director Edu Gaspar, a long-time admirer of the Brazilian midfielder, has reportedly identified Luiz as the club's number one target. However, prying the influential midfielder away from Aston Villa is shaping up to be a formidable challenge.

Douglas Luiz has been instrumental in Aston Villa's impressive start to the season, contributing six goals and six assists. With Villa riding high in the Premier League, any potential deal for the Brazilian is likely to come at a hefty price, with reports suggesting a valuation around £60 million. Despite Edu Gaspar's admiration for Luiz, it remains to be seen whether Arsenal can navigate the financial and sporting hurdles to secure the midfielder's signature.

Contrary to swirling rumors, it has been clarified that Arsenal is not considering including Emile Smith Rowe in any swap deal for Douglas Luiz. While Arsenal values Luiz highly, Smith Rowe is not part of the negotiation picture.

Meanwhile, a subplot in Arsenal's transfer ambitions unfolds, as manager Mikel Arteta expresses a keen interest in Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi. The Spanish midfielder has been on Arteta's radar for quite some time, with reports indicating a failed £52 million bid for Zubimendi in the previous January transfer window.

Arsenal's scouts diligently observed all of Real Sociedad's Champions League matches, underscoring the club's eagerness to secure Zubimendi's services. However, the obstacle in this particular transfer saga appears to be the player himself. Zubimendi has publicly stated his commitment to Real Sociedad, expressing a desire to aid the club in the upcoming Champions League campaign and conveying his happiness at the Spanish club.

As the January window approaches, the Zubimendi deal seems unlikely, given the player's firm stance on staying put. However, it could be a story worth revisiting in the summer transfer window, adding an element of anticipation to Arsenal's future transfer endeavors.