Luiz’s Frustration, Loosing Two Key Players: Arsenal Had A Horrible Deadline Day

Here is your Friday, September 2 Arsenal morning digest.

Luiz’s Frustration

On deadline day, Arsenal allegedly made three offers for Aston Villa midfielder Douglas Luiz.

Given that Mikel Arteta, the midfielder for Villa, is currently in the final year of his contract at Villa Park, it had been thought that Luiz might arrive to the Emirates Stadium and contend with Thomas Partey and Granit Xhaka for a starting berth in the team.

Despite Edu’s efforts, no agreement could be reached, therefore the Brazilian is still a member of the Villa team.

Maitland-Niles exit

According to gunners247.com, Ainsley Maitland-Niles has joined Southampton on loan for the rest of the current campaign with a purchase option for the next year.

The England international had been garnering interest from the Saints since last week, as previously revealed by gunners247.com, and the writing has been on the wall in terms of consistent playing time with the Gunners having not made a single matchday squad so far this season.

It is understood that the Gunners have been happy to let the versatile midfielder leave all summer. Following the announcement, Southampton manager Ralph Hasenhuttl said: “Ainsley is at a good point in his career, with a lot of experience already, but he is also still a player with potential, and he is someone who can definitely help us.I think he fits well with us and can develop his game even further during his time here. He can also play in different positions, which is always a good thing, and I am pleased to welcome him as part of our squad.”

Agent Gabriel Jesus

Following Arsenal’s 2-1 win against Aston Villa, which maintained the Gunners perfect start to the Premier League season, Gabriel Jesus was spotted having a conversation on the pitch with Douglas Luiz.

After Jesus’ early goal, the latter scored a remarkable corner kick goal that soared directly into Aaron Ramsdale’s net to tie the score. Gabriel Martinelli then scored the game-winning goal just 151 seconds later.

While both players covered their lips as TV cameras recorded the chat, it’s unclear what the two were talking about. However, it may have involved Arsenal’s pursuit of the 24-year-old. According to gunners247.com, the Gunners had been trying to sign Luiz, but Edu was unable to reach an agreement with Steven Gerrard’s team.