The summer transfer window is still some months away, but already the rumours are beginning to grow stronger around Arsenal and their possible targets. One name that has started to appear more often in recent weeks is Luiz Henrique. The Brazilian winger, who currently plays for Zenit St Petersburg, is now openly dreaming about a move to the Premier League. And more interesting for Arsenal fans, he has spoken about his admiration for Arsenal in the past.
Luiz Henrique is not a new name in European football. Before moving to Russia, he played in Spain for Real Betis. Even earlier, he made his name in Brazil with Botafogo. His journey has not always been smooth, but at 25 years old, he is now entering what many believe are the best years of his career. And according to journalist Bruno Castanha, Henrique has made it clear that his next big goal is to play in England.
Zenit St Petersburg signed Henrique from Botafogo in January last year. The move was seen as an important step for him. Russia may not have the same spotlight as England or Spain, but Zenit is a strong club with European experience. Since joining them, Henrique has made 33 appearances in all competitions and has contributed 10 goals and assists combined. This season alone, he has scored two goals and provided three assists in 16 league matches.
Those numbers may not look extraordinary at first glance. However, statistics do not always tell the full story. Henrique’s game is about more than just goals and assists. He is a player who works hard without the ball. He wins duels, tracks back, and helps his team defensively. On average, he wins around 6.6 duels per match. He also attempts 1.6 take-ons per game, showing that he is not afraid to dribble and take on defenders.
In addition, Henrique makes around 4.2 recoveries per match and averages 1.6 tackles. These numbers show that he is not just an attacking winger who waits for the ball. He fights for possession and helps protect his team when they lose the ball. That type of work rate is something that managers in the Premier League value highly.
According to Bruno Castanha, he spoke directly to Henrique’s representative. The message from the agent was very clear. While they see some options positively, including a possible return to Brazil with Flamengo, their first choice is to secure a move to a big European club. And preferably, that club should be in the Premier League.
Back in November last year, Luiz Henrique openly spoke about his love for English football. He said he is a huge fan of both Arsenal and Manchester City. He explained that he admires the style of play in England, the intensity of the matches, and the global attention the league receives. For many players around the world, the Premier League is seen as the biggest and most exciting competition.
Henrique even mentioned that his relatives believe he has the perfect profile to succeed at Arsenal. That comment quickly caught the attention of fans. When a player openly says he dreams of playing for your club, it naturally creates excitement.
However, it is important to stay realistic. At this moment, Arsenal have not made any formal contact with Zenit or with Henrique’s representatives. There is no official bid. There are no advanced negotiations. What we have is interest from the player’s side and admiration for the club.
Still, football transfers often start exactly like this.
Arsenal’s manager, Mikel Arteta, has shown in recent years that he wants versatile attackers. Players who can operate in different positions are very valuable in modern football. Henrique fits that description. He can play on the left wing, on the right wing, and even as a forward if needed. That flexibility could make him an interesting option.
Looking at Arsenal’s current squad, they already have strong attacking players. Bukayo Saka is a key figure on the right wing. Gabriel Martinelli usually plays on the left. Leandro Trossard can also operate in wide areas. But injuries, fatigue, and a long season always create a need for depth.
Henrique’s style could suit the Premier League. He is physically strong, competitive in duels, and comfortable with the ball at his feet. During his time at Real Betis in La Liga, he showed similar qualities. He spent one-and-a-half seasons in Spain before returning to Brazil with Botafogo in January 2024. That experience in Spain helped him grow tactically and technically.
In La Liga, he also demonstrated his ability to dribble and win challenges. Spanish football is very technical, while the Premier League is more intense and physical. Having experience in different leagues can help a player adapt faster when moving again.
The big question for Arsenal is whether Henrique would improve the squad enough to justify a move. Arteta has been very careful in the transfer market. Arsenal do not just sign players because they admire the club. They sign players who fit their system and long-term vision.
Henrique is 25 years old. That is not too young and not too old. He has experience but still room to develop. Financially, a move from Zenit may not be extremely expensive compared to signing a superstar from another Premier League club. That could make him an attractive option if Arsenal are looking for value in the market.
Another important factor is mentality. The Premier League is demanding. Players face criticism, pressure, and high expectations every week. Henrique’s comments show that he is ambitious. He does not just want any move. He wants a big European team, and preferably in England. That ambition can be positive, but it also comes with pressure.
For Arsenal fans, the idea of signing a player who already loves the club can be exciting. We have seen in the past how passionate players can quickly connect with supporters. When someone arrives with genuine admiration, it often helps them settle faster.
However, transfers are complex. Zenit would need to be willing to sell. The player’s contract situation would matter. The transfer fee would need to fit Arsenal’s budget and priorities. There may also be interest from other Premier League clubs, especially since Henrique has openly said he admires Manchester City as well.
It is also possible that this story is simply the beginning of a longer saga. Sometimes agents speak publicly to attract interest. By stating that the Premier League is the priority, they send a message to clubs in England. It can be a way of opening doors.
From Arsenal’s perspective, the summer window will likely focus on key areas. Depending on injuries, form, and potential departures, they may prioritize a striker, a midfielder, or defensive reinforcements. Wingers are important, but the club must decide where their biggest needs are.
Still, Luiz Henrique is certainly a name to watch.
His statistics this season show a balanced player. Five goal contributions in 16 league games may not be headline numbers, but his duel success, dribbling, and defensive work show that he contributes in many ways. In modern football, wide players are expected to press, defend, and help in build-up play. Henrique appears capable of doing that.
If Arsenal were to move for him, he would not necessarily arrive as a guaranteed starter. Instead, he could be part of a rotation. Competing with Saka, Martinelli, and others would push everyone to perform better. Competition inside the squad is healthy.
For now, though, everything remains at the level of dreams and possibilities.
Henrique dreams of the Premier League. He admires Arsenal. His agent says England is the priority. But Arsenal have not made their move.
As the season progresses towards its final months, the focus will remain on performances on the pitch. But behind the scenes, clubs are already planning. Scouts are watching. Data analysts are studying players. Directors are preparing shortlists.
When the transfer window reopens at the end of the campaign, many rumours will become clearer. Some will fade away. Others will grow stronger.
Luiz Henrique’s future may depend on many factors: Zenit’s plans, Arsenal’s needs, and offers from other clubs. But one thing is certain. The Brazilian winger has made his ambitions clear. He wants the Premier League. He wants a big European club. And he has already talked up his admiration for Arsenal.
For Gunners supporters, that is enough to spark interest.
Whether this dream turns into reality remains to be seen. Football is full of surprises. Some transfer stories end quietly. Others become headline signings that change a club’s season.
As summer approaches, keep an eye on Luiz Henrique. The 25-year-old Brazilian could become one of the names dominating Arsenal’s transfer discussions. And if Arsenal decide to act, they may find that the player is more than ready to wear the famous red and white shirt.
Until then, it remains a story of ambition, admiration, and possibility.
