Arsenal have now made contact over a deal for an "incisive" midfielder, who has been compared to Barcelona star Pedri.
Ornstein speaks out on Gunners' January transfer plans
With a number of top Premier League clubs looking to sign a new midfielder, Nottingham Forest star Elliot Anderson has been attracting plenty of interest, but David Ornstein has suggested the Gunners may not be involved in the race.
The Athletic reporter said: "All the top clubs like him and most of them will be in the mix.
"Maybe with the exception of Arsenal, they’re the ones who have a full midfield."
In fairness, there arguably isn't a pressing need to bring in another top midfielder, given that Declan Rice and Martin Zubimendi have struck up quite the partnership in the middle of the park, with both receiving high praise in recent weeks.
Rice-Martinelli-Hincapie-Zubimendi-Arsenal
However, there may be space in the squad to bring in a younger player, who would perhaps be more content to play a more sporadic role, and the north Londoners are now stepping up their pursuit of a Brazilian gem.
That is according to a report from TNT Sports (via Sport Witness), which states Arsenal have now made contact over a deal for Corinthians midfielder Breno Bidon, although they are yet to lodge a formal bid.
The Gunners have submitted an enquiry to the Brazilian club, while also approaching the 20-year-old's agents, which highlights their level of interest, but there could be competition from within the Premier League, as both Manchester United and Chelsea are also keen.
It is unclear what sort of fee Corinthians are looking to receive, and they intend to keep hold of Bidon until the end of 2026, as they believe his value could increase even further by then.
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"Incisive" Bidon could be exciting long-term signing for Arsenal
The youngster is yet to prove himself in Europe, but he has been catching the eye in Brazil, making 101 appearances for Corinthians, during which time the Sao Paulo-born ace has drawn high praise from scout Ben Mattinson.
Mattinson describes the maestro as "incisive", while also likening him to Barcelona star Pedri and adding: "Breno Bidon isn’t what you associate with a Brazilian midfielder at all, he’s much more of a Spanish midfielder in his play-style."
Against Ponte Preta last time out, the starlet showcased his ability in possession by averaging a 90% pass-completion rate, while he is also an impressive dribbler, averaging 1.11 successful take-ons per 90 over the past year, which ranks him in the 89th percentile, compared to other midfielders.
With Bidon yet to make a name for himself in Europe, he may be some way off first-team level at a club like Arsenal, but there are signs he could be an exciting long-term addition to Mikel Arteta's squad.