Arteta makes Serie A star his 'number one objective' despite previous Premier League snub

Mikel Arteta has made Juventus star Federico Chiesa his “number one objective”, according to a fresh report.

The Gunners are currently at the summit of the Premier League, five points clear of Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City, having lost just one league game all season.

In turn, Arteta’s side have been extremely active in the January window as they look to consolidate their title credentials.

The club have already signed Leandro Trossard from Brighton and Jakub Kiwior from Spezia, while they are reportedly on the cusp of bringing in Real Valladolid's Ivan Fresneda.

Arteta has also admitted the Gunners are eager to sign another midfielder before the transfer window slams shut next Tuesday, with Everton’s Amadou Onana and Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi having been linked.

However, a move that would excite Gooners the most would be a transfer for Italy international Chiesa.

Chiesa is Arsenal’s number one target

According to Italian publication Calciomercato, Arteta has made Chiesa his "number one objective", with a move potentially on the cards in the summer.

The report claims that the 25-year-old could be one of Juventus’ “great sacrifices” with the potential of missing out on the Champions League set to have a large impact on the club’s revenue.

Indeed, Juventus have been deducted 15 points following an investigation into their past transfer business.

The Old Lady, who have denied any wrongdoing and plan to appeal, were accused of fixing their balance sheets by inflating transfer fees.

Given Juventus could be forced to make sales in the summer, Arsenal have “fully registered” their interest in Chiesa.

At his best, the Italian is one of the most exciting wingers in the world. He was a star and named in the team of the tournament as the ​​Azzurri won Euro 2020.

However, an ACL injury suffered just months after his international heroics severely restricted the player’s game time. Chiesa has played just six times in Serie A this season, claiming two assists.

The wide-man has had interest from the Premier League before, however, and reportedly even turned down a move to Liverpool before signing for Juventus.