Everton could look to bring Arsenal midfielder Mikel Arteta back to Goodison Park in a swap deal this summer, FootballDirectNews.com understands.
The Toffees look set to receive a number of bids for in-form right-back Seamus Coleman after a superb season from the Irishman, and Arsenal are among his suitors as they seem set to lose Bacary Sagna on a free transfer. Everton will be determined not to lose one of their best players, but could be tempted to do a deal with the Gunners if there was a chance to bring Arteta back to the club, as Roberto Martinez could be short of options in midfield next year.
The Spaniard left the Merseyside club for a move to the Emirates Stadium back in 2011, and has become a key player for Arsenal, though his performances have waned somewhat this season, so there is a chance that Arsene Wenger could be open to this particular move, an inside source believes.
The 32-year-old could be a good like-for-like replacement for Gareth Barry in Everton’s midfield, with the future of the on-loan Manchester City man still unclear.
My understanding is that Everton would want Arteta back in any deal for Coleman, an Arsenal insider explained. “They’re looking for a midfielder and he’d be an obvious choice as he knows the club and fits their style. He’s perhaps not been at his best this season, and Wenger might take the opportunity to bring in a younger player in that position.
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