It is no secret that Arsenal are a club desperate for some summer reinforcements when the transfer window re-opens again. While there have been some promising signs this season, Unai Emery appears to be a man working with one hand tied behind his back, so every fan reading this will be keen to see the Gunners spend.

Despite them now being on course to obtain a top-four finish, the season has proven to be very difficult for Emery during his first year in charge.

On countless occasions, they have been struck back by injuries and it is now confirmed that Aaron Ramsey will be departing this summer on a free transfer. With some sure to follow the Welshman out the door, a particular focus for the Spanish coach needs to be how they will replenish their midfield and Lille’s Thiago Mendes could be the perfect option for them.

Mendes, (who is valued at £19.8 million on Transfermarkt) is a defensive-minded midfielder that differs to Aaron Ramsey but would allow Arsenal to either set-up more defensively in games or then give someone the freedom to push further forward.

Lille's turnaround from last campaign has been largely to do with Thiago Mendes and how instrumental he's been in midfield. He's played 28 times this season and whilst without scoring a goal himself, has laid on two assists for his team-mates, so would look at home at the Emirates.

Graft as well as guile, that's what the club needs.

Arsenal would undoubtedly be a challenging move for him but with the quality he has shown this season alone, Mendes is built to play for one of the biggest teams.

He has plenty of time on his side to get adjusted at the Emirates and he could become an influential player for the Gunners. Linked (by RMC via Tribal Football) with big moves to England before, he'd be a wonderful addition.

Arsenal fans, would you back a move for Thiago Mendes? If not, why not? Join the discussion by commenting below...