Arsenal Football Club has agreed to sign Brentford midfielder Christian Norgaard in a deal worth an initial £10 million, with potential £5 million add-ons.
The 31-year-old Denmark international will undergo a medical before finalizing his move to the Emirates Stadium. Norgaard’s signing comes ahead of Thomas Partey’s contract expiration, with Partey yet to agree on a new deal.
Norgaard has been a key player for Brentford, featuring in 34 of 38 Premier League games last season. He boasts impressive stats, including 201 interceptions, 844 recoveries, and 189 tackles won since his top-flight debut in 2021.
This experience makes him an attractive signing for Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta, who values Premier League-ready players.
The Dane’s playing style differs from Partey’s, as he’s more of a traditional defensive midfielder, screening for danger in front of the defense.
In contrast, Partey offers more dynamism carrying the ball in central areas. Despite this, Norgaard’s ability to break up opposition attacks and regain possession could be a valuable asset for Arsenal.
Norgaard’s potential partnership with Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi could provide Arsenal with a strong midfield presence.
Zubimendi is more of a passer and creator, while Norgaard excels at regaining possession and stopping opposition attacks. This duo could play together in a midfield trio, offering Arteta more depth in his squad.
Arsenal is also close to finalizing the £51 million signing of Zubimendi and set to complete the signing of Chelsea goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga by paying his £5 million release clause.
These signings indicate Arsenal’s proactive approach to reshaping their squad for the upcoming season. However, the fans of the North London club have old concerns about the lack of a confirmed signing in the striking position.
Arsenal’s meeting targets for the striking position are RB Leipzig’s Slovenia striker Benjamin Sesko, followed by Sporting Lisbon’s Swedish striker Victor Gyokeres
