Arsenal’s recruitment staff were in attendance as FC Porto secured the league title with a 1-0 win over Alverca, and the Gunners did not travel to the Dragão without a clear purpose.
The Portuguese press report that over 20 foreign clubs had scouts present. Arsenal were among them, alongside sides like Borussia Dortmund and Newcastle United, according to local outlets A Bola and Record. Still, from a North London perspective, this was about identifying profiles ahead of a defining summer window.
With Mikel Arteta’s side also closing in on major honours domestically, planning is already underway.
Midfield profiles fit Arsenal’s structure
Gabri Veiga was the standout name in Arsenal’s group of targets. The Spaniard assisted the winning goal and drove Porto’s attacking play, especially in the first half.
His role between the lines and ability to progress the ball would suit Arsenal’s positional structure. He offers creativity without sacrificing intensity, and his season-long output supports that. Data from FBref shows consistent involvement in chances created and attacking sequences.
Alan Varela, introduced in the second half, represents a different profile. The Argentine operates deeper, focusing on control and distribution. Arsenal already value midfielders who can dictate tempo, and Varela showed glimpses of that with clean passing and good positioning.
Victor Froholdt did not dominate this match but remains highly rated. The Danish midfielder has built a strong campaign, combining physical presence with composure on the ball. That balance makes him an attractive option for depth with long-term upside.
More options on show
Alberto Costa also caught attention. The 22-year-old right-back made a crucial goal-line clearance late on and contributed in transition phases.
His ability to cover ground and support both defence and attack fits the profile Arsenal have targeted in recent windows. He is still developing, which could make him a more accessible deal compared to established full-backs.
Elsewhere on the pitch, several other names would not have gone unnoticed. Diogo Costa produced key saves to protect the result and continues to be linked with a summer move. Lincoln and Davy Gui, from the Alverca side, showed flashes of quality despite limited support.
What happens next
Arsenal’s presence at the Dragão reflects preparation on top of the curiosity. The club is approaching a window that could define the next phase of Arteta’s project.
Gabri Veiga appears the most immediate fit in terms of impact. Meanwhile, Varela and Froholdt offer structural depth, and Alberto Costa represents a developmental option for the right hand side.
With strong competition from across Europe already established, Arsenal may need to act decisively if they want to turn scouting into concrete moves.
