Arsenal will need to strengthen in the wide and forward areas ahead of next season. It seems Mikel Arteta could be prepared to complete the mission which Arsene Wenger couldn’t at Arsenal in the transfer market to enhance the wide and forward areas.
According to British journalist Pete O’Rourke, Edu is prepared to use his Brazilian connections to bring Everton’s Richarlison to Arsenal. Brazilian’s making the switch to north London has been a regular theme since Edu took over as technical director at Arsenal in 2019.
Richarlison has proven his quality in the Premier League over recent seasons highlighting why Edu should pursue a deal for him. This is also emphasised by the fact that Wenger also had an eye on him during his time as Arsenal boss.
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According to the Sun, Arsenal were interested in securing the services of Richarlison in 2018 while Wenger was still the Gunners’ boss. The forward was six months into his first season in the Premier League at Watford but had already shown the excellent potential he possessed.
After his first season at Watford, Richarlison moved to Everton where he scored 53 goals 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.
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.
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.
Arsenal needs to sign a player who has the versatility to feature on the wing and as a centre-forward. Richarlison would be able to tick both boxes. 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 position for the Spaniard and has been thriving for the Gunners.
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's 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.
