Arsenal Transfer Rumor: Gunners Aiming To Spend Big For Talented Brazilian Playmaker?

According to latest reports, English Premiership heavyweight Arsenal are preparing a summer transfer bid for Italian Serie A side Lazio's Brazilian midfielder Hernanes. It is being said that the player's club has already rejected a big money bid from Russian side Anzhi.

Hernanes, 26, is believed to be interested in a move to England in the summer and play in the Premier League and the Emirates Stadium, currently, looks to be his preferred base. The player was linked to the Gunners in recent weeks following his impressive display in the Italian League and is believed that his club could also be ready to let the player go, provided they receive a handsome amount.

New reports already stated that Lazio president Claudio Lotito has revealed he's willing to listen to offers for the Brazilian and if the deal is successful, Gunners fans may see Hernanes arriving in North London next season where he will have chance to display his potential in one of the best football leagues in the world.

Gunners' boss Arsene Wenger may look to bring the talented Brazilian to the Emirates to add more creativity in the side's midfield. Although some argue that Arsenal have already filled the void that was created by the departure of Spain international Cesc Fabregas by signing Mikel Arteta from Everton, there may still be a scope to add more strength to the midfield by adding a second playmaker and Hernanes looks fit for the job.

Moreover, none of the Arsenal midfield players are known for their goal scoring abilities. Although Arteta fired home a thunderous shot to take his team past Manchester City at home, none of the other options have found the net regularly.

It is now believed that Lazio will put a price tag of $26.26 million (€20 million) on the player and although Arsenal may look to land the player in the summer, they will face a tough competition from Premiership rivals Liverpool and Tottenham, according to a Tribal Football report.

Anderson 'Hernanes' de Carvalho Andrade Lima, who can be used as a playmaker in the central attacking midfield role and noted for his ambidexterity, being neat and tidy in possession, and the ability to spray the ball out wide in order to stretch play, arrived at Lazio from Brazilian side Sao Paulo in 2010 and agreed to five year contract.

The player has made as many as 65 appearances for the Stadio Olimpico-based Biancazzuri and has also managed to rack up 21 goals thus far.