Exclusive: Arsenal are now looking into signing a midfielder who runs even further than Declan Rice

Exclusive with Graeme Bailey

Arsenal are stepping up their efforts to sign one of the most promising young midfielders in Europe.

Arsenal have been linked with a number of midfield options heading into this summer, and now, one of the most coveted midfielders in Europe has been added to their list of targets.

The Gunners have done plenty of great work in the transfer window in recent years when it comes to signing young players, and another young star could soon be added to the ranks at the Emirates.

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Arsenal looking at Joao Neves

TBR Football understands that Arsenal have added Joao Neves to their list of midfield options and have intensified their scouting of him the last six weeks.

The Gunners are working hard on bolstering their squad for their next season and defensive midfielder is seen as a key signing along with a left-sided defender and a new forward.

Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi remains the club’s top choice and Arsenal are busy trying to work on a deal with Mikel Arteta himself working hard to persuade the Basque talent to make the move.

However, Arsenal are doing their due diligence on other targets if Zubimendi proves unattainable.

Aston Villa’s Douglas Luiz and Newcastle’s Bruno Guimaraes are both players Arsenal like, but after Villa’s Champions League qualification, Luiz is set to sign a new deal, while Arsenal aren’t thought to value Guimaraes at £100m.

Joao Neves could be brilliant for Arsenal

Joao Neves could be a fantastic addition to this Arsenal side.

Neves is a player that has been watched constantly by a host of Premier League clubs with Manchester United confirmed admirers of the 19-year-old.

TBR has been told that Arsenal scouts have been in attendance to see Benfica three times in the last month and Neves was central to their attentions.

It’s no surprise that Neves has caught the eye at Arsenal. He’s been brilliant for Benfica this season, and at the age of just 19, he has tons of room to grow and improve.

According to UEFA’s stats, Neves actually covers substantially more ground per game than even Declan Rice, so if Arsenal can find a way to pair these two in their midfield next season, they could become even more difficult to play against.

Neves could be just what the doctor ordered at the Emirates, and this could be a fantastic signing if the Gunners do decide to press ahead with their interest.