Arsenal linked with Liverpool-targeted 'Japanese Messi' as pundit heaps praise on defender

The summer transfer window is still several months away - nevertheless, teams in the Premier League and beyond are working feverishly to lay the groundwork ahead of another tumultuous summer period. Today, we'll be looking at a player dubbed the 'Japanese Messi' following links of a move to Arsenal - additionally, a former Gunner had some very nice things to say about a defender who is also in Arsenal's sights.

Arsenal linked with Liverpool target Takefusa Kubo

Arsenal are thought to have entered the race to sign Liverpool target Takefusa Kubo from Real Sociedad, according to a report from TEAMtalk. They aren't the only ones - Newcastle United are also believed to be interested. Dubbed the 'Japanese Messi', Kubo is a very highly-regarded player in La Liga. So far in the current season, the 34-cap Japanese international has made 21 league appearances for Sociedad, scoring seven goals and registering three assists.

Ian Wright impressed by Arsenal target Jarrad Branthwaite

Arsenal icon Ian Wright has made his feelings clear regarding Gunners target Jarrad Branthwaite. Not only does he want Arsenal to sign him, he also thinks that the 21-year-old is good enough to play for the England senior team.

Speaking on his podcast, Wrighty's House, he said: "I would like to give flowers to Jarrad Branthwaite. I believe now he will be in the next England squad. He has got everything. You watch how he plays, left-sided as well, he plays out well. Very brave.

"And then when you listen to his interview he sounds like somebody who is like yeah, I’m there, I’m here. He should be called up [to the England squad]. And not only that, he should be played. Let’s have a look at him. I’m telling you we have a monster on our hands at left-sided centre-half. A monster."