Arsenal are open to a late move for Al-Hilal midfielder Ruben Neves, though a deal appears difficult before the deadline.
The Gunners are assessing the market for midfield additions after Mikel Merino was sidelined with a broken bone in his foot.
Merino is expected to miss much of the run-in as a result. Speaking ahead of the club’s Carabao Cup semi-final second leg against Chelsea tomorrow, Arteta said all options are being considered.
“Of course. When you lose a big player like this in the squad, with four months to go and other competitions to play for, you need to look,” Arteta said.
“We need to do everything that we possibly can to see if we have a player that is available. If we don’t, OK, we keep what we have.
“At this level, especially for four months, you have to bring a player who has the capacity to adapt immediately and impact the team. That’s not easy but if it was easy we wouldn’t be here. We need to find solutions and try.”
Neves is a player who appeals to Arsenal, according to Football London, given his past Premier League experience and ability to make an immediate impact.
The Portugal international’s contract at Al-Hilal expires in the summer, though the Saudi side are hopeful of reaching an agreement on an extension. Manchester United were linked with a move for Neves earlier in the window.
Read – Deadline Day Folklore: When Peter Odemwingie rocked up to Loftus Road only to get locked out
See more – Deadline Day: Five unforgettable transfer stories
