Arsenal are reportedly one of three Premier League clubs showing strong interest in RB Salzburg playmaker Oscar Gloukh, whose arrival could support both Martin Odegaard and Mikel Merino, according to a report.
The Gunners faced a setback in their 2-0 defeat to Bournemouth on Saturday, with most attention focused on William Saliba’s red card. However, it’s worth noting that Arsenal struggled offensively even before the dismissal. With captain Martin Odegaard still sidelined due to injury, Mikel Merino was tasked with playing as the most advanced midfielder.
Merino found it difficult in the role, completing only 24 of 35 attempted passes. Additionally, he struggled with the pressing duties usually performed by Odegaard, losing six of 10 ground duels and being dribbled past four times.
According to a new report from *Caught Offside*, Arsenal are considering a move for 20-year-old RB Salzburg playmaker Oscar Gloukh. The Israeli international has contributed seven goals and assists in seven Austrian Bundesliga matches this season. His signing would not only provide cover for Odegaard but would also allow Merino to return to his preferred deeper midfield role.
Salzburg reportedly values Gloukh at around €35m (£29.2m / $38m), and Arsenal are not alone in their interest—Aston Villa and Newcastle are also monitoring the player.
Gloukh appears ready for a Premier League move, and despite Mikel Arteta having the option of using young talent Ethan Nwaneri as Odegaard’s backup, Arteta chose Merino over the 17-year-old for the Bournemouth match. This suggests that the manager may be cautious about placing too much responsibility on the teenager too soon.
Although Gloukh is only 20, he has already amassed over 100 senior appearances and has been a key figure at RB Salzburg since his €7m move from Maccabi Tel Aviv in January 2023.
The report indicates that Gloukh is open to a Premier League switch, and while Salzburg are not actively pushing for his departure, they would consider a January sale for the right price. Barcelona previously attempted to sign Gloukh before his move to Salzburg, with Benfica, Udinese, and Borussia Dortmund also expressing interest at the time. It now seems that the Israeli midfielder could be ready to take the next big step in his career.
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