Arsenal’s defence has looked strong again this season. Even with William Saliba missing through injury, Mikel Arteta’s backline stayed firm in their 3-0 win over Nottingham Forest.
Cristhian Mosquera impressed, Gabriel Magalhaes brought stability, and Piero Hincapie added depth. Yet behind them, there is no academy defender truly pushing for a first-team spot.
The club lost Ayden Heaven to Manchester United, and while youngsters like Maldini Kacurri and Brayden Clarke continue their growth, none are ready to step up.
For that reason, Arsenal have turned their attention towards the market. A young centre-back has emerged as a key target.
But Arsenal are not alone. A European giant has now entered the picture. Barcelona are willing to move faster and spend immediately.
According to AS, Barcelona are ready to test the resolve of Palmeiras with an offer close to €12 million for Luis Benedetti. The defender is already making headlines in Brazil.
At 6ft 5in, he has been compared to Real Madrid’s Dean Huijsen, earning the nickname the “Brazilian Huijsen.”
The 19-year-old has already risen through the youth ranks at Palmeiras after joining from Ferroviaria in 2022. In the Under-20s, he scored six goals in 29 appearances, rare numbers for a centre-back.
Benedetti has now broken into the senior side, making six appearances and even appearing on the bench in the Club World Cup against Chelsea.
His contract runs until the end of 2029, which gives Palmeiras a strong position. However, European clubs see this as the right moment to act.
As per the reports, Barcelona are preparing an offer to beat Arsenal to his signature. The January window could be decisive.
Palmeiras want to keep him for their title push, but Barcelona’s move might change the timeline.
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