Arsenal are banned from signing their top transfer target this month due to FA rule change

Arsenal fans could be set for more bad news after it emerged the Gunners could potentially miss out on a January signing due to a new FA rule caused by Brexit.

Mikel Arteta's men made a blistering start to the 2023/24 season, starting where they left off after a surprising second-place finish last season.

Despite their strong start though, the Gunners have endured a sticky patch over the festive period and slipped down to fourth place in the Premier League, five points adrift of Liverpool at the top.

Arsenal have only managed to pick up one win in their last five league games and crashed out of the FA Cup at home to Liverpool after missing some huge chances in the first half.

Goals have been an issue for Arteta's men, having only scored one goal from their last 60 shots.

The North London club have also been hindered by multiple injuries, particularly in defensive positions.

New signing Jurrien Timber has proven a huge loss, as well as Takehiro Tomiyasu's fitness troubles leading to players often having to play out of position in Arteta's backline.

With these fitness issues added to the midweek games Champions League football comes with, it isn't particularly shocking that Arsenal are looking to strengthen defensively.

The Gunners are reported to be monitoring Jorrel Hato of Ajax, but one key rule change could mean signing the youngster this window is impossible.

The Dutch defender can play as both a centre-half and a left-back, making his versatility a key factor in Arteta's interest.

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The deal looks to be unattainable in this window, however, as Hato doesn't turn 18 until March - meaning he won't be eligible for a UK work permit until the summer transfer window.

This is a new FA rule that was introduced following Brexit, where players now must meet certain regulations in order for a 'player trade' to take place.

Hato could in theory still move to another club this window as the rule only applies to English clubs.

The defensive starlet could therefore still secure a transfer to any of the various European giants he has been linked with in this window but Arsenal would be powerless to prevent him from going elsewhere.