Arsenal need to strengthen in the wing positions ahead of the next campaign. Raphinha seemed to be the main target for Mikel Arteta, but a deal appears to have fallen through due to the Brazilian’s desire to play for Barcelona.
The Gunners need to look for alternatives in order to fill the void in Arteta’s squad. One player that has now become a strong option is Cody Gakpo from PSV Eindhoven.
Arsenal were linked to him throughout the course of last season, but it seemed Leeds United were set to sign him in this transfer window. However, the Whites have instead opted for another option, which gives Edu clear access to attempt a deal for Gakpo.
READ MORE: Arsenal's connection with Ligue 1 club can help Edu beat Premier League rivals to Belgium star
According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Leeds are on the verge of signing Luis Sinisterra from Feyenoord. This comes after Romano had reported that the Premier League side were also chasing Gakpo. But, this deal is now unlikely to happen as Sinisterra and Gakpo play in the same position.
This has relevance to Arsenal because earlier in the season Dutch news outlet AD Sportwereld reported that Liverpool, Manchester City, and Borussia Dortmund were all after Gakpo’s signature. However, Arsenal are leading the race to land him in a deal that could be worth £35m, a price quoted by The Athletic.
The 22-year-old played 42 games on the left-hand side for PSV last season, and played another three games as a centre-forward. However, he has shown a clinical nature from whatever position he is playing in, as he scored 19 goals from the left wing and two goals in three games as a striker.
This is similar to Gabriel Martinelli, meaning if the Dutch forward joined the club, there could be a lot of interchanging between the new signing and the Brazilian. Gakpo could initially struggle to play as a striker in the Premier League due to the increased competitiveness of the league compared to the Eredivisie. It would be wise for him to feature on the wings before eventually transitioning into the striker position.
The winger ranks in the top 10 for the most goals and assists combined in Europe this season for players under the age of 23. He excelled in this campaign, which explains why Arsenal have reportedly been hot on his tail.
The fact that Gakpo is ranking amongst Europe’s best youngsters this season highlights the potential he has and the tools he possesses to succeed in the Premier League. It is certainly a transfer that Mikel Arteta and Edu should explore further, especially with Leeds seemingly now out of the race.
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