Arsenal are now eyeing a move for a "world-class" Real Madrid star, who Mikel Arteta has been personally keen on for some time.
Gunners keen on new midfielder amid Norgaard uncertainty
Although Christian Norgaard only arrived at the Emirates Stadium during the summer transfer window, speculation surrounding his future has already started to build, with widespread recent reports suggesting Ajax have now emerged as potential suitors.
In truth, the Dane has struggled to make much of an impact, appearing in only three Premier League matches, but he was given a run-out in the Champions League on Wednesday night, achieving a solid SofaScore rating of 7.7 in the 3-2 victory against Kairat Almaty.
Speaking before the game, Norgaard broke his silence on his future in north London, saying: "No, I’m really, really happy here and the messages I get from the club is that they’re really happy with me as well.
"I would obviously love to play more minutes, but the minutes I’ve had so far I’ve really enjoyed."
Norgaard-Arsenal-Gyokeres
However, Arteta is still keen to add another midfielder to his ranks, and the Gunners have now joined Liverpool in the race for a Real Madrid midfielder.
That is according to a report from Caught Offside, which states Arsenal are now eyeing a move for Eduardo Camavinga, but it could take a bid of up to €100m (£87m) to get a deal over the line.
In fact, there are some suggestions the Spanish club won't be open to a sale at any price, with one source saying: "There have been some initial contacts, but the message is a resounding ‘no’, not for any price."
Arteta has wanted to sign the Frenchman for years, but Liverpool are currently ahead of the north Londoners in the race for his signature, with their interest said to be more serious.
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"World-class" Camavinga could be big upgrade on Norgaard
Norgaard had never made an appearance in the Champions League prior to joining Arsenal, having spent the previous six years with Brentford, while the Real Madrid maestro is very experienced at the top level, winning the competition on two occasions.
Lauded as "world-class" by journalist Raj Chohan, the France international has remained a key player this season, averaging 2.3 tackles per game in La Liga, the second-highest of any Real Madrid player to have played more than one game.
Having often featured as a defensive midfielder throughout his time in Spain, the 23-year-old has only bagged six goals in 204 outings for Madrid, but he is solid at winning back possession, and could be a like-for-like Norgaard replacement, with the 31-year-old also playing in a deeper role.
Having put in a top performance against Barcelona earlier this season, Camaivnga certainly has what it takes to compete against Europe's best sides, but a move to Arsenal doesn't seem particularly likely, given that they would have to shell out one of their highest-ever transfer fees.