Transfer Talk: Three midfielders Gunners may take aim at this summer

Having overseen a surprise title charge this term, Mikel Arteta is ready to take his Arsenal squad to the next level.

The Spaniard is thought to view his old position of central midfield as a priority area for strengthening this summer, with countless names having been linked to the Gunners in recent weeks.

Ahead of tonight's derby with Chelsea, we take a closer look at three Premier League stars who could soon be making the move to North London.

Declan Rice (West Ham)

West Ham skipper Declan Rice is thought to be top of Arteta's wish list — though there will likely be plenty of competition for his signature.

The 24-year-old England international has enjoyed a mesmeric rise through the ranks in East London but after six seasons as a first-team regular, now appears to have outgrown the Hammers.

Rice has made no secret of his desire to play in the Champions League, so Arsenal's impending return to Europe's premier competition for the first time since 2016-17 could be hugely significant for their pursuit.

Though primarily known as an industrious holding midfielder, Rice's ball-carrying skills, passing range and increasing attacking threat make him one of the most well-rounded midfielders in world football.

However, the Hammers will not sell their prized asset on the cheap. A fee approaching £100million will likely be required to bring Rice to the Emirates.

Amadou Onana (Everton)

Everton have endured a tough season but Belgian midfielder Amadou Onana has still managed to catch the eye.

Only arriving at Goodison Park last summer from French side Lillie for £33m, the 21-year-old has often been at the heart of the Toffees' better performances this term — including a man-of-the-match display against the Gunners in February.

A master of winning the ball back, Onana ranks inside the Premier League's top 10 central midfielders this year for tackles made, aerial duels won and possessions regained in the final third.

The six-cap international has at times showcased the inconsistency often associated with players of his age, though he has featured in all but five of his side's top-flight outings.

If Everton fail to avoid the drop this season, a cut-price move for Onana would make plenty of sense from an Arsenal perspective.

Mason Mount (Chelsea)

Arsenal's latest midfield recruit could easily be playing in the opposition ranks this evening if recent reports are to be believed.

Uncertainty over Mason Mount's future at Chelsea has been public knowledge for some time and talks over a new deal are still yet to reach a positive conclusion.

Now with just one year remaining on his current contract at Stamford Bridge, the 24-year-old has only netted three times in 24 league appearances this term, falling well short of his usual standards.

Last season, he reached double figures for both goals and assists in the Premier League alone and it is easy to see why Arteta would want to bring the Cobham academy graduate across the capital.

Considering Jorginho made the very same move in January, a move for Mount may not be as far-fetched as it sounds.