Arsenal pushing to sign Serie A midfielder

Arsenal are reportedly stepping up their efforts to sign Juventus midfielder Arthur Melo on a short-term loan.

The Gunners are presently short in the midfield department with Thomas Partey and Mohamed Elneny at the Africa Cup of Nations.

This leaves Granit Xhaka and Albert Sambi Lokonga as the only specialist options. Partey and Elneny may not play again this month.

An injury could jeopardise the club's top-four hopes quickly, and manager Mikel Arteta is desperate for a new midfield option.

Arthur has been earmarked as the prime transfer target, and the Gunners are optimistic of luring him on loan from the Bianconeri.

While the midfielder also wants to join the club, the Turin giants won't sanction his exit until they land a suitable replacement.

The Gunners are likely to propose an option to buy Arthur as part of the loan deal. It remains to be seen whether they can land his services.

Arthur has also been linked with Sevilla, but he prefers a move to the Gunners.