The Gunners have been focussing on adding a top-quality forward to their ranks this summer. They believe the forward can be a winger, not necessarily a striker. However, according to reports, Arsenal have been facing some concerns in their move for certain wingers.
Arsenal Face Major Hurdles in Signing New Attackers
Who Are the Preferred Wingers for Arsenal?
Manager Mikel Arteta wants to bring in more attacking reinforcements who can add depth and keep the existing players on their toes by pushing for a spot in the starting lineup. His key players often looked tired during matches last season. Bukayo Saka, in particular, never got enough rest due to the lack of an able deputy.
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Arsenal have had a long-standing interest in Wolverhampton Wanderers’ forward Pedro Neto and Athletic Bilbao’s Nico Williams. The duo are capable of adding some much-needed pace and dribbling to the North London club’s attack. Among the current options at the Emirates, only Gabriel Martinelli offers both of these qualities. However, as per The Athletic, there are certain obstacles to completing a deal for either player.
Injuries and a Tricky Release Clause
Neto’s injury record is a major concern. Their fears are not without reason. Transfermarkt states that the Wolves star had been injured for 549 days since April 2021. He missed 98 games for club and country during the said period.
On the other hand, the problem in striking a deal for Williams is money-related. His relatively modest release clause, which stands at £49 million might be attractive for the big teams. But the catch is that it has to be paid in a single instalment, according to The Athletic. This is likely to put off many interested parties. Moreover, having signed a new contract recently, he will seek a significant increase in wages in order to leave Bilbao.
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With Chelsea deciding to pull out of the transfer race for the Spanish winger, Arsenal now face competition mostly from Barcelona. Between the two clubs, he might choose Barca as his friendship with Lamine Yamal could be a key factor.
Meanwhile, Gunners fans are eagerly awaiting the signing of a world-class attacker who can prove to be the X-factor their squad needs.