Arsene Wenger’s legacy will be hard to replicate for Unai Emery but the former PSG boss is off to a decent start in his first transfer market as the manager of Arsenal. The Gunners have already completed a couple of signings and continue to be linked with a host of stars from all around Europe.
But Emery is also interested in adding depth to the side and is looking at potential stars, who can have an impact on the first team next season. One such prospective superstar they are now interested in is Junior Firpo.
Born and brought up in the Dominican Republic, Firpo moved to Spain with Betis in 2014 and was promoted to the Betis B side in just a year. He spent over two seasons with the club, before breaking into the first team just last February, making an immediate impact on the squad.
He made 14 league starts before the end of the domestic campaign in Spain and was one of the best players for the club late in the season. A left-back by trait, Firpo can play further ahead on the wing, in an attacking role, but is equally adept at putting in a shift as a centre-back.
He is known for his concentration and ability to soak up the pressure, against the toughest of opponents. He is quick and smart with his positioning, while his understanding of the game in front of him, allows him to make interceptions in dangerous areas. He is composed with the ball at his feet and at just 22, has shown great confidence in his ability, against the best teams in La Liga.
He scored two goals, and picked up two assists, playing as a wing-back for Betis in the last few games and reports suggest that the Spanish outfit are desperate to get him to sign a new deal this summer.
The 22-year old’s current contract runs till 2021 but reports claim that he has a release clause of £22m, which can be activated this summer. Arsenal have reportedly sent scouts to keep an eye on him last season and are now ready to make a move.
At his age, with not much exposure in Europe, he is not ready for first-team action but his ability to fill up gaps in various roles will give Emery options to set up his squad in the domestic cup competitions.
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He has great potential and can be a star in the future for Arsenal but at £22m, the Gunners are better off looking for players who can make an immediate impact on the first team, especially in a summer of transition.
