Arsenal pushing to sign £100m striker alongside Rogers, he’s Arteta’s top target
Arsenal are keen to strengthen their attacking options this summer, and a bid for Aston Villa’s Morgan Rogers is expected within days.
Rogers is being targeted for the left-wing role, with Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard potentially in line to leave this summer, but Villa have set a very lofty asking price of £130m, which could complicate things.
The England international hasn’t received much game time at the World Cup, with Jude Bellingham doing such a stellar job in behind Harry Kane, most recently bagging a brace against Norway to lead the Three Lions to the semi-final.
However, the Villa star played his part against Norway, as his long-distance effort, which was parried by Norway’s Orjan Nyland, led to Bellingham’s all-important second goal, which came in extra-time.
Not only are the Gunners keen on signing a new left-winger, but they also remain interested in signing a new centre-forward, despite Mikel Arteta already having the likes of Viktor Gyokeres and Kai Havertz at his disposal.
Arsenal pushing to sign Julian Alvarez
According to a report from The Independent, Arsenal are pushing to sign Atletico Madrid star Julian Alvarez, but a deal could be very expensive, with the Spanish side set to hold out for at least £100m.
In fact, Alvarez is Arteta’s top target in attack, despite links to Rogers and Paris Saint-Germain star Bradley Barcola, and the north Londoners want a deal done before pre-season.
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Football FanCast’s Verdict |
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Credibility |
Although Arteta already has Gyokeres and Havertz, there are doubts surrounding Gabriel Jesus‘ future. Squad depth will be important if the Gunners are going to compete for every major trophy again next season, which perhaps explains the interest in Alvarez. |
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Finances |
After reaching the Champions League final and winning the Premier League, Arsenal should have plenty of money to spend this summer. That said, deals for Rogers and Alvarez could cost a combined £230m, which would be a huge amount to shell out. |
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Insight |
That said, Arteta would be getting his hands on a striker who is proven at the top level. The Argentinian has 15 goals in 57 appearances for his national side, while he has also been on the scoresheet 25 times in 42 Champions League games. |
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Impact |
Arsenal could sanction Jesus’ departure if they get another centre-forward through the door, as Arteta probably doesn’t need four strikers. However, despite Alvarez’s experience, it could be difficult to challenge Gyokeres for a place in the side initially, with the Sweden international bagging 14 Premier League goals last season. |
Why Julian Alvarez could take Arsenal to the next level
With his side reaching the Champions League final and lifting the Premier League title, Arteta probably doesn’t need to make too many changes to his squad ahead of next season.
However, the Atletico Madrid star could have what it takes to lead them to glory in Europe, having been described as “one of the best in the world” by manager Diego Simeone.
The former Manchester City man has been involved in 66 goals in 106 appearances since signing for Atletico, whereas Gyokeres is contributing at a slightly lower rate for Arsenal, having registered 24 goal involvements in 55 games.
As such, it would be a major statement of intent if Arsenal are able to get a deal over the line.
