Arsenal could take advantage of Manchester United's inability to keep their key players happy at the club, with Paul Pogba and Marcus Rashford both reportedly unhappy with recent proceedings in Manchester.
Edu could exploit this in the summer window, however, but ensure that Pogba is targeted while avoiding the pursuit of Rashford.
Arsenal can take some encouragement away from Paul Pogba’s recent comments about Manchester United. The Frenchman seems unhappy at the club but he would be welcomed with open arms in north London.
According to the Daily Telegraph, Paul Pogba is open to Premier League offers if he leaves Manchester United this summer. The Gunners are in desperate need of a midfielder and Edu’s alarm bells should have been ringing as soon as these developments took place.
Mikel Arteta’s new system would be perfect for Pogba as he would sit beautifully next to Thomas Partey who is occupying the number six role. With his recent comments about leaving United, Arsenal should certainly explore a deal for the Frenchman.
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Speaking about his future, Pogba said: "You have to be honest, the last five seasons have not satisfied me – really not at all. This year it is dead, we won't win anything. Whether it is with Manchester United or in another club, I want to win trophies," Pogba added to Le Figaro.
Arteta’s side is currently excelling in the Premier League at the moment by having one of the best records in the league over the last few months. It is clear that Arsenal are heading in the right direction and will be able to compete for some of the major trophies next season, which could attract Pogba.
Another reason why a deal could be possible is due to his ambitions as a young kid. He has always wanted to play for Arsenal.
Speaking on United’s official podcast, the midfielder said: "I will be honest. So at the start, I was an Arsenal fan – obviously because of all the French players, you know.
"Me and my brother were but my other brother was a Manchester United fan. I couldn’t say anything so I used to love Henry and, because of him, I was an Arsenal fan."
Pogba has proved in recent years that he is one of the best midfielders in Europe, and the chance for Arsenal to sign him should be snatched with both hands. He was pivotal to France's world cup winning campaign in 2018, similar to Patrick Vieira and Emmanuel Petit in 1998, and Arsenal can look to repeat signing World Cup triumphers to reinstall the winners' mentality
Pogba would certainly be an excellent acquisition for the Gunners, but Rashford would be the opposite. According to our colleagues at the Manchester Evening News, the Englishman is considering his future at Old Trafford due to concerns over his lack of playing time, with his contract set to expire next year.
Various reports have suggested that the Gunners will have to battle it out with Paris Saint-Germain and a host of Premier League clubs if they want to secure his signature.
The England international’s best position is high up on the left-hand side where he is not required to track back, but that is exactly what Arteta requires from his players and it is a big reason why Nicolas Pepe has struggled to gain regular minutes this season.
Not to mention that Arsenal are already well-stocked in the left-wing position with Gabriel Martinelli and Emile Smith Rowe being standout performers so far this campaign.
Rashford will likely cost an extortionate amount due to him being a regular England international and the Gunners are a direct rival of Manchester United, so paying a hefty price for him would not be worth it. Pogba should remain as the only Manchester United player Arsenal attempt to sign.