With just over a week remaining in the transfer market, teams are frantically trying to strengthen their squads before the window slams shut. While Arsenal do not need to panic buy after seeing success earlier in the market, more acquisitions are still needed.
The midfield and wide positions are two areas that need addressing. It seems that Edu is focusing on a winger as a priority as the Gunners are reportedly in discussions to sign Pedro Neto.
However, with this deal looking extremely difficult to complete it is important that alternatives are explored. Manchester United have sent Edu an important reminder that Allan Saint-Maximin could be available for a transfer they have reportedly registered interest in the Frenchman.
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According to The Athletic’s David Ornstein, Arsenal’s current transfer priority is to sign Neto. The Gunners have reportedly been in discussions for over a month to try and complete a deal. However, the report goes on to say that Wolves are not open to selling him and Arsenal are not willing to pay over the odds.
Mikel Arteta is thought to be on the lookout for a new winger before the window slams shut, and the unsuccessful pursuit of Raphinha has been the strongest hint yet that the club is serious about recruiting one. Considering there hasn't been any movement since suggests that the chance to secure the Brazilian's services was too good to ignore, but different options still need to be explored.
Saint-Maximin would be an excellent alternative to Neto, especially considering that Manchester United has potentially exposed his transfer availability. According to Foot Mercato, The Red Devils are considering a late approach to sign the Frenchman. CIES football observatory value the winger at around £35million.
If the Gunners were to sell Pepe at the end of the season, then competition alongside Saka would certainly be needed. Despite the excellent performances the Englishman has shown for Arsenal throughout the season, there have been times when he has shown signs of burnout, and it having someone who can help successfully share the attacking load would certainly be beneficial.
Saint-Maximin is the most exciting player in the Premier League when in possession of the ball, and causes havoc for opposition defences. Having him as an option in the starting XI or even on the bench would come as a major benefit for Arteta’s side.
The French attacker is criticised for his consistency, but the pressure on him won’t be as high as it is in Newcastle, meaning he can showcase his talents without the team dependence solely on him.
Ex-Gunners defender Bacary Sagna has urged Mikel Arteta to sign his compatriot. The 39-year-old spent seven years in North London and believes Saint-Maximin can “electrify” the Emirates Stadium.
“I really like Allan Saint-Maximin a lot,” he told Lord Ping. “I love the way he plays, with so many tricks and skills. He is a nightmare for any defender.
“He is a player that can electrify a match, a stadium and make the difference. I would love to see him wearing an Arsenal shirt. He’s one player I really like, but I’m not sure Arsenal could sign him because he would want to play every game.”
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