Despite losing the plot midway, Arsenal are sensationally back in the ‘top four’ hunt banking on some astounding results in recent weeks. The Gunners are also going strong in Europe scripting a commanding 2-0 victory against Napoli but, at the same time, are keeping close tabs on the players they have identified for the summer transfer window.
As per reports from the Telegraph Sport, the North London giants are keen on Ajax sensation David Neres, the 22-year-old Brazilian who has been instrumental in de Godenzonen’s dream European run. The winger scored a stunner in his side’s 1-1 first-leg draw against Juventus and also found the net in a momentous 4-1 Round of 16 win versus Real Madrid.
Arsenal, meanwhile, will have to compete against Everton to acquire Neres’ service and must splash the cash to rope him in ahead of the other suitors. He would cost around €40m as the player is under contract until summer 2022. The Gunners, in search of a wide attacker, must step up the chase to tie down the highly-rated youngster.
The Selecao sensation completed a €12m winter transfer to Amsterdam from hometown outfit Sao Paulo FC a couple of years back. He soon grabbed a starting role and flourished further in Ajax’s amazing set-up.
Although he made his mark down the right flank since joining the esteemed Eredivisie outfit, Neves has exhibited his excellence on the left as well. He has a strong left foot and prefers to build the game up with his pace, swift movements, stunning dribbling as well as passing attributes.
Unai Emery has done a commendable job at Arsenal with the resources he inherited. But the Spaniard would wish to have players who fit in his gameplan, and a prospect of Neres’ calibre should ply his trade in Europe’s most appreciated football league.
The Gunners lack an outright winger other than Alex Iwobi as neither Mesut Ozil nor Henrikh Mkhitaryan are comfortable enough to feature down the wide areas due to the lack of pace and agility. The Brazilian, therefore, would be a smart pick considering his best is yet to come. The stunning impact he made against the Czech Republic (while representing his nation for the first time at a senior level) showcased what he is capable of if nurtured properly.
The appeal of European football puts Arsenal in the driver’s seat as of now. Yet they must react sharply without any hesitation before some other outfit with a better offer wraps up a deal under their nose as has happened in the past.
