Exclusive: Arsenal plotting move to sign 'superstar' in January

Arsenal are plotting a move to sign a "superstar" winger in the January transfer window, sources have told Football Insider.

This comes amid growing concerns about Gabriel Martinelli's performances after the winger struggled in the 1-0 defeat to Newcastle at St James' Park.

Sources say Mikel Arteta wants to make a game-changing signing who can help his side bridge the gap between being challengers and being champions.

Former Man United chief scout Mick Brown told Football Insider on 14 October that the Gunners had been targeting cover for their attacking positions.

The transfer department at the Emirates was said to have already drawn up a list of potential options ahead of the window.

Now, though, they are expected to switch their focus to more of a high-profile target who will be able to step into the first team immediately.

Ideally, the signing would also be able to provide cover for Bukayo Saka should Arteta need to rest the England star amid concerns about his workload.

Arsenal plotting big-money move to sign new superstar

Martinelli has featured 15 times for Arsenal this season and has worked his way back to becoming the first-choice left-winger at the Emirates.

However, his two goals and three assists in that time have raised red flags about his end product, with his performance against Newcastle underlining those concerns.

His pace down the wing has caused constant issues for defenders, but there is a growing belief that his is a position the club need to improve upon to establish themselves as title contenders.

Arsenal have come close two years in a row before ultimately finishing as runners-up behind Man City, and are keen to do all they can to overtake their title rivals.

Former City star Leroy Sane has attracted interest from the Emirates after Football Insider revealed the club are plotting a pre-contract offer for his services.

Meanwhile, Brentford star Bryan Mbeumo, while predominantly right-sided, has also been considered as a big-money option ahead of the January transfer window.

In other news, a top source has heard 'whispers' about Alexander Isak to Arsenal.

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