As the summer transfer window edges toward its dramatic close, Arsenal find themselves at the heart of two major storylines that could reshape the club’s immediate future and long-term ambitions. While the North London giants are reportedly monitoring Palmeiras’ highly-rated teenage defender Luiz Benedetti, they are also preparing for the likely departure of Brazilian striker Willian, whose time at the Emirates has failed to ignite as hoped.
Just days before the transfer deadline, journalist Diego Firmino broke the news that Arsenal have set their sights on Luiz Benedetti, the 19-year-old centre-back who has recently emerged as a first-team regular for Palmeiras. Benedetti, standing an imposing 1.97 meters tall, has already racked up nine senior appearances for the Brazilian Serie A side, drawing praise for both his maturity and physical presence at the back. According to Firmino’s report on August 16, 2025, Arsenal are weighing up a move to bring the Brazilian prospect to England this summer.
Benedetti’s rise through the Palmeiras youth ranks to the senior squad has been nothing short of impressive. Despite his age, he has demonstrated a knack for reading the game, breaking up attacks with well-timed tackles, and dominating in the air—qualities that have made him one of the most talked-about young defenders in Brazil. His performances have not gone unnoticed, and with Arsenal’s defensive line in need of fresh legs and long-term planning, the timing seems ideal for such an acquisition.
However, any deal for Benedetti is not expected to come cheap. The youngster is under contract with Palmeiras until the end of 2029, a detail that could complicate negotiations and drive up the transfer fee. Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is believed to be keen on integrating Benedetti into his defensive rotation, albeit as a fringe player initially, with the hope that the Brazilian’s development will accelerate in the competitive environment of the Premier League.
So, what makes Benedetti such a compelling target for the Gunners? For starters, his defensive stats in the Brazilian top flight have been eye-catching. He’s not just a towering figure—he’s also a disciplined tackler who can sense danger and isn’t afraid to clear his lines when under pressure. Arsenal’s back line has, at times, struggled with physicality and set-piece defending, and Benedetti’s aerial prowess could provide a much-needed boost in those departments. At just 19, he’s already showing the kind of composure and football intelligence that hint at a bright future.
"Benedetti is a good tackler of the ball and can sense the danger well to secure the ball back for his side inside his half. He usually puts his foot through the ball when the opposition are on the offensive and can use his towering 1.97m frame to win his fair share of aerial duels at the back," noted one scouting report. While he remains raw and somewhat inexperienced at the highest level, the consensus is that with the right guidance, he could blossom into a Premier League star.
Arsenal’s pursuit of Benedetti also reflects a broader trend under Arteta’s leadership: the club’s renewed emphasis on youth and potential. The Gunners have invested heavily in young talents in recent years, aiming to build a squad capable of sustained success both domestically and in Europe. Benedetti, with his blend of physical attributes and technical promise, fits that mold perfectly.
But as Arsenal look to the future, they are also preparing to bid farewell to a player whose arrival last summer was met with considerable fanfare. Willian, the Brazilian forward who joined from Chelsea in the previous transfer window, is expected to leave the club in the coming days. Despite his pedigree and experience, Willian’s spell at Arsenal has been underwhelming, with the player struggling to make a significant impact on the pitch.
Speaking to the media on August 17, Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta confirmed the likelihood of Willian’s departure before the window closes. "We are talking with his agent and we are evaluating the offers that are coming our way," Arteta said. However, he was quick to add that as long as Willian remains at the club, he will continue to be considered for selection. "At the moment he is part of us and we are trying to get the best out of him. There are still a few days until the end of the transfer market and let’s see what will happen," Arteta remarked.
Willian’s situation is being closely monitored by several clubs, with his former team Corinthians expressing a strong interest in bringing him back to Brazil. There is also reported interest from clubs in Saudi Arabia, though the player himself is said to prefer staying in England to continue his life in the country. This preference could play a significant role in determining his next destination, as Willian weighs up offers in the final days of the window.
The Brazilian’s potential exit marks the end of a chapter that, for all its promise, never quite delivered the expected results. Willian’s experience and versatility were supposed to add depth and creativity to Arsenal’s attack, but a combination of form and tactical fit meant he struggled to hold down a regular spot. His impending departure will likely free up wages and squad space for new arrivals—perhaps even the likes of Benedetti, should Arsenal complete the deal.
For Arteta, the dual storylines of Benedetti’s pursuit and Willian’s exit are emblematic of the club’s current balancing act: blending youth and experience, planning for tomorrow while managing the realities of today. The Gunners are not just shopping for immediate fixes; they’re building for the long haul, and every move in this transfer window reflects that strategy.
With the clock ticking down, Arsenal fans are left to wonder—will Benedetti be the next young star to wear the famous red and white? And where will Willian land as he seeks a fresh start? One thing’s for sure: the final days of this transfer window promise plenty of intrigue, and the Emirates faithful will be watching every development with bated breath.
As the transfer window edges toward its conclusion, all eyes remain on Arsenal’s next moves—both for the present and the future. The coming days will reveal whether Benedetti becomes the latest addition to Arteta’s youth revolution and where Willian’s journey takes him next.