Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta could look to bolster his midfield ranks by rectifying a transfer mistake made by his former manager Arsene Wenger. It comes as the Spaniard looks to improve upon his squad in the January transfer window, given their perceived lack of depth.
The central ranks are a potential minefield for the head coach, with Thomas Partey, Granit Xhaka and Martin Odegaard his usual three starters. Beyond that, he has little in the way of a consistent option to select, especially if there is a long-term injury or absence around the corner.
This was an issue faced earlier this campaign when Partey and Mohamed Elneny were both sidelined, leading Arteta to make a late move for Aston Villa's Douglas Luiz on transfer deadline day. The move fell through though, with Arteta going on to say: "We tried but at the end of the day, we have to bring the player that we feel is the right player for the team and as well for the club and we didn't manage to do that."
READ MORE: Arsenal 'confident' of beating Chelsea to Mykhaylo Mudryk transfer after first Mikel Arteta hint
Not only does January offer a chance to bolster that area, but it could also hand the manager a chance to rectify a mistake of his own former boss. That's in making a move for Ismael Bennacer, who has been linked with a move to the Emirates Stadium after some impressive performances for AC Milan over the past two campaigns.
The Algeria international was a former Arsenal player, joining the club in 2015 from French side Arles before leaving the side in 2017 without making an appearance. The Gunners were handed a potential blow in wanting to make a return for the 25-year-old as Gianluca Di Marzio reported that a new contract had been agreed until 2027 in Milan.
However, that does not rule Arsenal out of landing him again as the report states he has the same release clause kept in from his previous deal, sitting at roughly £44million. It means that, despite his extended contract and new terms, a transfer is still very possible for the side.
READ NEXT:
Mikel Arteta hints Mykhaylo Mudryk's dream Arsenal move can happen after supporting player power
Every word Mikel Arteta said on Arsenal's Oxford test, transfer latest and touchline behaviour
Mikel Arteta delivers update on Emile Smith Rowe's fitness ahead of Oxford vs Arsenal
Diego Simeone makes Joao Felix demand as Edu continues negotiations over £16m Arsenal loan deal
Arsenal news and transfers LIVE: The latest news, rumours and gossip from the Emirates Stadium
