According to a recent report by AS (via the Daily Mirror), FC Porto midfielder Hector Herrera is inching closer towards sealing a move to Atletico Madrid. The same source has also stated that Arsenal have been linked with the Mexican midfielder for quite some time. However, his most likely destination seems to be in the Spanish capital.
This recent development will be a bitter pill to swallow for the Gunners as they are set to continue their search for an ideal replacement for Aaron Ramsey, who will join Juventus when his contract runs out at the end of this campaign.
Herrera has been playing well for Porto and has put in some excellent displays under Sérgio Conceição’s tutelage during this campaign. He has made 43 appearances for the Portuguese outfit this term, scoring seven goals while providing two assists in all competitions. The Liga NOS prospect has developed a habit of popping up with the odd goal from time to time which is why he is being linked some of the best clubs in Europe.
The 28-year-old has also gathered a wealth of experience at the international level, having represented the Mexican national team in 70 matches while scoring five goals for his nation so far. Herrera is currently playing at his prime, so this could be the perfect chance for him to seal a switch to an elite European club.
It’s a real shame if Arsenal does end up missing out on him as he would have been an ideal fit for Unai Emery’s style of play at the Emirates Stadium. The Mexican international is a complete midfielder as he can play in a holding midfield role or a more advanced position in central midfield.
He also has a wealth of experience of playing in the UEFA Champions League with FC Porto so he would be ready to step up to the challenge of playing at the highest level every week. Herrera is a proven talent who would have undoubtedly bolstered Emery’s midfield options at the North London club. However, it seems like the Arsenal manager will now have to look elsewhere in search of a worthy replacement for Ramsey.
The Gunners have already got some talented midfield players in their ranks such as Granit Xhaka, Matteo Guendouzi and Lucas Torreira with Joe Willock also on the verge of breaking into the club’s first-team. However, the Gunners would need more depth if they are to challenge for major trophies in the coming years.
Overall, it feels like missing out on Herrera will a massive blow for the North London outfit and their chances of finding a proven talent in midfield.
