Despite it being an overly positive summer for Arsenal, there's likely to be a sense of frustration within the walls of London Colney after failing to bring in an extra body before Thursday's deadline. Mikel Arteta was just one player away from having the 22 outfield players that he desired but has instead been left one short.
The Gunners' plans are believed to have changed in the last 72 hours of the window following an injury to Mohamed Elneny. It was expected that a new winger would be Arteta and Edu's main focus, with Nicolas Pepe's loan departure opening the door for a replacement to be signed. However, when Elneny joined Thomas Partey in the treatment room, there became an urgent need to bolster a suddenly light midfield.
football.london understands efforts were made to bring Aston Villa's Douglas Luiz to the Emirates Stadium in the final hours of the window, but time ran out after three bids were knocked back. Arsenal also explored a deal for Palmeiras talent Danilo, though again, any hopes were shortlived with the Brazilian side reluctant to sell.
READ MORE: Arsenal can still seal transfer despite failed Douglas Luiz move amid Partey and Elneny injuries
Although Arsenal admitted defeat in the pursuits, there remains a possibility that one or even both of the deals could be revisited again in January. That's because interest in Danilo may be reignited when the winter market opens up, football.london understands.
One of the main reasons for Palmeiras not wanting to lose the 21-year-old right now is their involvement in the Copa Libertadores semi-finals. Additionally, the Brazilian transfer window had already closed, meaning it was not possible for them to bring in a replacement.
Danilo is a long-term target of technical director Edu, who first showed an interest in the midfielder earlier this year. His ability to operate as a No.6 and progress play matches the profile of player the club is looking for, with the injuries to Partey and Elneny highlighting the shortage of defensive-minded options available to Arteta.
Viewed as one of the most talented young midfielders in Brazil and a key player for his side, Danilo is unlikely to come cheap, but Palmeiras could reluctantly soften their stance. Meanwhile, another option for the Gunners in January, should they be successful in their efforts to strengthen midfield, is Shakhtar Donetsk winger Mykhaylo Mudryk.
According to The Athletic, the Ukrainian international was discussed among Arsenal's recruitment team after receiving glowing reports about his talent and temperament. It's added that contact was made with Mudryk's representatives, and a formal bid is thought to have been considered before the injuries mentioned above in midfield.
Suppose Arteta and Edu do indeed decide to push for reinforcements once again come January. In that case, they find themselves in a relatively strong position, having already established contact with potential candidates throughout the summer.
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