Arsenal were heavily linked with the signature of Brazilian Luiz Gustavo in 2013 and it appears Arsene Wenger is again interested in signing the defensive midfielder.

Following the sale of Thomas Vermaelen to Barcelona, the Gunners need to add defensive minded players to their squad. A central defender is a vacancy that needs filling and Gustavo’s versatility could prompt Wenger to try and sign him.

Strong World Cup showing

Gustavo, who was one of the few Brazilian to feature in the World Cup and leave with some pride, is adept at playing in defensive midfield or as a central defender.

This versatility could make him Wenger’s number one target ahead of the new Premier League season, with the Arsenal manager looking to make one more signing.

The Telegraph state that Arsenal recognise Gustavo’s quality in midfield but are also in the mind that he could provide cover at left-back and centre-back and a move for the Brazilian seems increasingly likely.

Set for a move?

Prior to the World Cup, noises coming out of Germany and Brazil suggested Gustavo could move club for the second consecutive summer – after departing Bayern Munich last summer to join Wolfsburg and Gunners fans will hope his next destination is the Emirates.

The midfielder was a huge success at Wolfsburg but the chance to test himself in the Premier League, where various Brazilians are now plying their trade, could be too good an opportunity to turn down.

Whether Arsenal and Arsene Wenger would be willing to pay out more big money on another signing, after spending nearly £60 million on transfers already this summer, remains to be seen, however.

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