Arsenal should take the gamble of signing Philippe Coutinho for the asking price of €80m (roughly £71.5m) as Spanish publication ABC reported that Mikel Arteta is targeting a transfer move for him in the upcoming summer window.

As per the report, the Spanish coach has already confirmed that he would like to have Coutinho at Arsenal for next season and that the Barcelona ace would be a key pillar in his project.

Arteta is apparently convinced that the player can regain his best level and help the north London club to compete with the likes of Liverpool and Manchester City. Coutinho has also apparently confirmed that his priority is to return to the Premier League, the competition in which he arguably lived his best moments. By style, the Gunners arguably fits perfectly with the way they play. [via ABC]

Indeed, the attacking midfield player made 152 appearances in the English top flight for Liverpool, scoring 41 goals and making 37 assists, according to Transfermarkt.

His pedigree in England's highest division not just as a creator but also as a goalscorer could prove to be the difference between Arsenal regaining Champions League football or continuing to miss out and, with a couple more additions, maybe even competing for the league title once again.

Take Mesut Ozil, who plays in the same kind of role but has only netted once and provided two assists in 18 matches in the Premier League so far this campaign (via Transfermarkt). At 27 years of age, Coutinho is four years younger than the German and so is arguably reaching the peak of his career whereas Ozil's best years may be drifting away.

Even though the asking price is relatively expensive, Arsenal should take the gamble on Coutinho.

Gooners, do you think the club should sign Coutinho for £71.5m? Comment below with your views!