Game-Changing Signing: Arsenal’s Right-Winger Deal
Arsenal is still seeking forward depth, with a potential addition on the horizon.
Arsenal is seeking to add a right winger to compete with Bukayo Saka on the right flank.
The Gunners have been active in the transfer market this summer, acquiring Kai Havertz early in the window and being close to finalizing Declan Rice and Jurrien Timber. These three acquisitions will bring Arsenal’s summer expenditure to approximately £200 million.
While Mikel Arteta currently has at least two players for each position, there is no stylistic replacement for Bukayo Saka. Last season, the 21-year-old became the first Gunner to participate in every game for two consecutive seasons, highlighting the position’s lack of depth.
At just 21 years old, Bukayo Saka is arguably Arsenal’s most essential player.
According to Dharmesh Sheth of Sky Sports, Arsenal would like to remedy the imbalance on the right flank by signing a right-sided forward to compete with Saka next season. The move would also be a significant declaration of intent, as every position on the field would have two competitive options.
Reiss Nelson, who recently inked a new contract, is currently the best candidate to fill Saka’s position, though Leandro Trossard and Gabriel Martinelli have filled in for Arteta, and Gabriel Jesus has played there for Manchester City.
However, all three are right-footed, unlike Saka. The only left-footed options are Fabio Vieira, who Arteta considers more of a midfielder, and Marquinhos, a young starlet who has spent only one season in England and who, according to the Express, could depart in the summer.
According to the Mail, Michael Olise of Crystal Palace, a prospective right wing option, was a target for Arteta, but he preferred to remain in south London under Roy Hodgson and continue his development. Saka is the apparent first-choice at Arsenal, making it unlikely that Olise would play a significant amount of minutes.
Michael Olise was once a target for Arsenal, but his transfer now seems unlikely.
According to 90min, Barcelona’s Raphinha and Ferran Torres are Arteta’s top targets for a right winger, as both have previously played in the Premier League. This summer, a cash-strapped Barcelona may be compelled to sell one or both of them in order to strengthen.
Thursday marks Arsenal’s first preseason match against Nurnberg.
Game-Changing Signing: Arsenal’s Right-Winger Deal
