Arsenal had a strong start to the summer transfer window addressing both the forward and defensive positions which clearly needed strengthening towards the back of last season. Despite a good start to the window, more acquisitions are still needed.
The Gunners have been searching for a midfielder and a winger throughout the window without much success in finding an ideal winger. However, Arsenal’s luck could be about to change after the price tag has been revealed for Cody Gakpo who has been linked with a move to the club since the January transfer window of last season.
Mikel Arteta’s side need extra options in the wing department to provide better competition for Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli. Gakpo would certainly be able to provide the needed fight for the starting wing spot, and improve Arsenal’s depth.
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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.
Despite that possible explanation, transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has claimed that Edu already has his sights set on another winger but Arsenal's silent approach is making it difficult to get clarity over who it could be. Arsenal have been linked with a ‘mystery winger’ which, according to Fabrizio Romano, remains a position Edu and Mikel Arteta want to address
According to the Daily Express journalist Ryan Taylor, Gakpo is an attainable signing for Arsenal. The reason for this is because the Dutchman is priced around £30million-£35million.
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.
Despite the doubts concerning the winger’s ability to adapt to the Premier League due to the physicality, the Dutchman has already ticked some of Arteta’s boxes when it comes to being important in the dressing room, which has been proven by the fact that Gakpo is vice-captain at PSV. It highlights that he would certainly adapt to the culture at Arsenal.
The winger ranks in the top 10 for the most goals and assists combined in Europe last 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 last 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 before the end of the transfer window.
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