A new report has revealed that Arsenal are interested in Bayern Munich's Matisse De Ligt, with Mikel Arteta confirming the club are prepared to spend money in the January transfer window. Building on last season's improvements, the Gunners have once again positioned themselves as true title contenders, with their top spot in the table ahead of Christmas, while Liverpool's win over Burnley saw them top of the table on Boxing Day.
Thursday's clash with West Ham United at the Emirates Stadium gave Arsenal a chance to reclaim top spot, but Mikel Arteta missed a number of players due to injury or suspension. Thomas Partey, Fabio Vieira, Timber and Justin Tomcan were all on stage, while Kai Havertz was suspended after receiving five yellow cards. Bayern Munich centre-back De Ligt is a long-term defensive target, along with Borussia Dortmund's Nico Schlotterbeck and Jeremy Frimpong, according to The Athletic.
De Ligt is not considered a viable target for January, with only 17 months on his five-year contract with Bayern Munich and spending more than £60 million on his arrival from Juventus, but there could be potential for negotiations ahead, with the Dutchman not being a regular Bayern starter as he is battling Dayott Upamecano and Kim Min-jae for a place in Thomas Tuchel's side. Despite this, Arteta admitted in his pre-match duties that they would consider making a move in the transfer window if Arsenal deem there is a deal suitable.