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Arsenal’s transfer window has taken another dramatic twist as the Gunners move closer to securing the signing of Palmeiras’ highly-rated centre-back Luiz Benedetti. The North London club have reportedly submitted a €10 million bid for the 19-year-old Brazilian defender as part of their plans to reinforce Mikel Arteta’s backline before the window slams shut.

The push for defensive reinforcements comes amid uncertainty surrounding Jakub Kiwior’s future at the Emirates. The Polish international has been heavily linked with a switch to FC Porto, but Arsenal’s willingness to sanction his departure is believed to depend on whether the club successfully secures Bayer Leverkusen’s Piero Hincapié. Negotiations for the Ecuadorian remain ongoing, leaving the Gunners in a delicate balancing act as they juggle potential incomings and outgoings.

While Hincapié remains Arsenal’s primary target, the club has widened its net with an official offer for Benedetti. According to reports from Brazilian outlet TV Espírito de Porco, Palmeiras are holding firm, demanding closer to €15 million including add-ons before they consider allowing their towering young star to leave. At present, Arsenal have not yet returned with an improved bid, but sources close to the deal suggest that discussions remain active.

Benedetti has long been admired by Arsenal scouts, who view him as a player with enormous potential for the future. His development at Palmeiras has been closely tracked, especially after the Gunners missed out on his former teammate, Vitor Reis, last year. Manchester City swooped in for Reis and immediately loaned him to Girona, leaving Arsenal determined not to be second best again when it comes to Benedetti.

Standing at an imposing 6’6”, Benedetti has quickly earned a reputation as one of the most commanding young defenders in South America. His physical presence makes him a dominant force in the air, winning an impressive 71% of aerial duels this season. But his game is not built solely on height and strength — his technical ability and composure on the ball have also been standout features.

Statistically, he has already shown the profile of a modern centre-back. With a passing accuracy rate of 93%, Benedetti is comfortable playing out from the back, a quality that fits seamlessly into Arteta’s tactical philosophy. His recovery pace allows him to deal with quick transitions, while his positional intelligence gives him the edge in high-pressure moments, making him a rare combination of physicality and finesse.

Palmeiras are understandably reluctant to lose such a promising talent without a fight. The Brazilian champions see Benedetti as a crucial part of their future and will only sanction his departure if their valuation is met. This sets up a potential transfer battle, with Arsenal needing to decide quickly whether to raise their bid or risk missing out to other European giants monitoring his progress.

Despite his age, Benedetti has already shown the maturity to compete at a high level. He has been a consistent performer in the Brazilian top flight, impressing not only with his defensive skills but also with his ability to step into midfield when required. This versatility has caught the attention of several clubs across Europe, but Arsenal appear to be leading the race thanks to their concrete approach in the final week of the window.

For Arteta and sporting director Edu Gaspar, the pursuit of Benedetti represents both short-term planning and long-term vision. While Hincapié could immediately slot into the first team, Benedetti is seen as a project signing — a player who can adapt, grow, and eventually establish himself as a central figure in Arsenal’s defense. The club’s track record of developing young South American talent, including the likes of Gabriel Martinelli and Marquinhos, may also give them an edge in persuading Benedetti to make the move.

Arsenal are not stopping there. Reports also indicate that the Gunners are actively pursuing Girona right-back Arnau Martínez, with an initial bid already submitted. Strengthening both the center of defense and the right flank suggests that Arsenal are preparing for a busy deadline day, ensuring that Arteta has enough depth and quality to compete on multiple fronts this season.

If the deal for Benedetti goes through, it would underline Arsenal’s determination to invest not only in established stars but also in the next generation of elite talent. With the Premier League title race and Champions League campaign looming, Arsenal are making moves that could shape their squad for years to come.