Arsenal transfer news: £26m Man Utd hijack launched as new signing shares frustration

 Arsenal have been linked with several deals as the halfway point of the January transfer window nears. The Gunners have the opportunity to strengthen their squad as the club strive for Premier League and Champions League glory.

The Gunners currently hold a six-point lead at the top of the league. However, new Manchester City signing Antoine Semenyo has demonstrated the instant impact that effective recruitment can have on a club’s fortunes.

Away from the title race, Arsenal have other opportunities to end their wait for silverware. Mikel Arteta's side are preparing for the first leg of their Carabao Cup semi-final against Chelsea on Wednesday night.

The club’s primary focus will be moving a step closer to a Wembley final but there has been plenty of speculation over how the Gunners may look to strengthen in the January window. Here, Mirror Football looks at the latest transfer headlines surrounding Arsenal.

Arsenal rival Man Utd for target

Arsenal are reportedly monitoring talented Corinthians midfielder Breno Bidon, who has previously been linked with Manchester United. The 20-year-old made 56 appearances for the Brazilian side last year.

FourFourTwo reports that the Gunners have been in contact with the Brazilian club over a potential move for Bidon. While talks are described as being at an early stage, it is not the first time that the youngster has been touted with a Premier League move.

Brazilian outlet UOL has previously claimed that both Manchester United and Manchester City are among the clubs competing for his signature. Napoli and PSV Eindhoven have also been rumoured to be potential destinations

Meanwhile, Brazilian publication ETI Esporte stated earlier this month that Corinthians had set their valuation at £26million. Bidon’s contract is currently scheduled to run until December 2029.

Christian Norgaard admission

Christian Norgaard has added crucial depth to Arsenal’s midfield but his role with the Gunners is markedly different from his time at Brentford. The 31-year-old made 34 league starts for the Bees last term and was central to Thomas Frank’s side.

Although he has featured 11 times for the Gunners so far following his summer move, Norgaard is yet to start for his new club in the Premier League. The midfielder admitted that it has taken time to adjust to his place in the pecking order.

“I’ve not had as many minutes on the pitch as I would have wanted, but I think I’ve still felt an integrated part of the team,” he told the club website. “I think it’s been good so far.

“Obviously, there’s always a time where you have to settle in and get used to everyone and everything. Players have different personalities, so it’s also about fitting into the dynamic with your own style too.

“That comes down to a great culture, I think, where it has been easy to step in. I’m doing my best to have conversations with different players and also talk about other topics than just football.”

Opening up on how difficult his start to life has been at Arsenal, he added: “No, I don’t really find it easy, but I also believe in what you give is what you get. So for me to be able to feel highly energised and in a good spirit, no matter the minutes I play, I also have to give something of myself.

“I try to remind myself that even when it can be a bit frustrating not playing, I still have to bring to the group because that dynamic will also give me energy back again.”