Arsenal are reportedly looking tt
Arsenal could decide to repeat the strategy which saw them sign Leandro Trossard when it comes to their summer recruitment drive. The Gunners are hoping to strengthen their squad in advance of a renewed Premier League title challenge, having missed out to Manchester City in each of the last two seasons.
It has been reported that Arsenal will target players who can improve their strength in depth rather than being ready-made starters. It follows the success of Trossard and Jorginho at the Emirates Stadium, with both players emerging as key men despite not being the most fashionable names on the team sheet.
Express Sport takes a look at four players who could fill similar roles for Arsenal if the Gunners fail to land their reported top targets…
Mikel Merino
Arsenal have been credited with a desire to land Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi, with Mikel Arteta thought to be a long-term admirer. However, if a deal cannot be pushed through this summer, they could do far worse than to target his team-mate Mikel Merino.
The former Newcastle man is already on Arsenal’s shortlist of potential back-up targets, according to CBS. His involvement at Euro 2024 has meant their interest is yet to materialise, but it could be one to watch as the start of the Premier League season draws nearer.
Adrien Rabiot could be another potential option for the Gunners with Arteta looking to shore up his midfield ranks over the coming weeks. The former Juventus man is available on a free transfer following his exit at the end of last season and would bring plenty of experience to the Arsenal dressing room.
Rabiot still has a few years left in the tank at the age of 29 and represented France at Euro 2024, playing in all but one of their matches. However, it seems likely that Arsenal will face stiff competition in the race for his signature, with Manchester United having also been linked.
Bryan Mbeumo
Arsenal have also been tipped to land Athletic Bilbao winger Nico Williams but they will need to switch their focus elsewhere if he joins Barcelona. There are few better alternative options than Bryan Mbeumo, who can also play through the middle, but Liverpool’s reported interest suggests the Gunners would need to act fast to secure his services.
The Cameroon international has already hinted that he would be open to leaving Brentford this summer, telling L’Equipe: “I have spent five seasons at Brentford, at a club that has helped me grow and turn a corner, but yes, I want to play in the biggest competitions, at the best clubs. It’s still exciting to see some of the big teams interested in me.”
Jean-Philippe Mateta
Alexander Isak has been tentatively linked with a move to north London, but the Daily Mail have suggested that Newcastle value him at an eye-watering £115million. A cheaper option could present itself in the form of Jean-Philippe Mateta, who excelled at Crystal Palace during the second half of last season.
Mateta would offer something completely different to the likes of Gabriel Jesus and Kai Havertz, being an out-and-out striker with an imposing frame and clinical finishing ability. He might be one to consider if there is room for a bargain deal to be done, but it remains to be seen how much Palace would be looking for.
