Rumour: Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur linked with Luiz Gustavo

Summer Arsenal target, Luiz Gustavo, might just be back on the market this January, after the Brazilian defensive midfielder spurned the North London club in favour of VFL Wolfsburg during the previous summer transfer window.

The ex-Bayern Munich man’s decision was thought to be influenced by the prospect of more regular first team football at the Wolfsburg side in order to enhance his prospects for next summer’s World Cup. Yet, the central defensive-midfield area remains one in which Arsenal already have options – even more so since Mathieu Flamini rejoined the club.

However, the Express has reported comments suggesting Gustavo may once again be up for grabs, should the conditions of his release clause be met. Tottenham and Arsenal both reportedly maintain interest in the Brazilian, but face competition from Barcelona who are also keeping tabs on the player.

“It’s always good to have your name linked to Barcelona,” He told Globo Esporte.

“This is the third time there has been interest from them.

“I have a long contract which includes a buyout fee, and if anyone wants to pay that, they can sign me.”

Gustavo’s tackling leaves a fair bit to be desired. He’s been successful with just under half of his attempted challenges (49%) in the Bundesliga so far this season, which for a defensively-oriented midfielder is disappointing.

However, the Wolfsburg man is remarkably productive and efficient in terms of taking the ball forward through surging runs; he’s completed 30 out of 36 attempted (83%). which is more than twice as many as Flamini (5) and Mikel Arteta (9) combined.