Arsenal need to sign a player who has the versatility to feature on the wing and as a centre-forward. These are two positions that need strengthening in the summer transfer window, and Mikel Arteta has been presented with the perfect opportunity to do this.
According to the Mail, Everton forward Richarlison is set to leave Everton in the summer. The report goes on to claim that Tottenham, PSG, and Real Madrid have registered interest in the attacker.
The Sun had previously reported that Arsenal also hold an interest in the Brazil international. Richarlison has shown that he would be a quality player for Arteta and it is a deal that Edu should look to pursue.
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The Brazilian was excellent for the Toffees in their fight for survival this season, as Richarlison led the line with excellent passion and quality in performances to match. The 26-year-old finished the season with six Premier League goals, but it is his all-around play that makes him a quality signing.
Richarlison has scored 53 goals for Everton since joining them in 2018 and during his time he has featured on the wing or as a centre forward. He seems to excel wherever he is positioned showing the versatility that would be useful at Arsenal.
His best position, however, is the inside forward position from the left-hand side which fits perfectly into Mikel Arteta’s system. Gabriel Martinelli has featured in a similar for the Spaniards and has been thriving for the Gunners.
Arsenal will be short in the wing positions ahead of next season. Nicolas Pepe’s future is uncertain at the club as the winger wants to leave Arsenal this summer and has instructed his agent to find him a new club, football.london understands. The winger has two years left on his deal and found the game time given to him by Arteta extremely limited during the previous campaign which has likely led to his desire for a way out of the club.
Pepe has featured heavily on the right-hand side for Arsenal meaning Richarlison would not be a direct replacement for him. However, Martinelli has had a lot of success when given a chance on the right-hand side which would open a spot for Richarlison. Arteta is to opt for a more fluid system. Richarlison versatility to also play as a striker also makes him an attractive signing as the Gunners will be short in that position going into next season.
Securing the signature of the Brazilian international will not be easy as many clubs around Europe are also likely to register their interest in the player. However, it is a deal Edu should look the explore as Richarlison would be an excellent addition to the Brazilian contingent at Arsenal.