According to Estadio Deportivo, Arsenal are among the clubs interested in the services of Benjamin Bourigeaud. The Stade Rennais midfielder has been courted by a host of clubs top clubs across Europe this summer, including Sevilla, Liverpool, Chelsea as well as the Gunners.
Head coach Unai Emery is already looking for midfield reinforcements following the departure of Aaron Ramsey and Bourigeaud, in that regard, could be an exciting option.
Bourigeaud’s impressive season at Rennais
Bourigeaud has been a part of the Stade Rennais side ever since his €3.7 million move from Lens back in 2017. And since then, he has become a crucial component of the Rennais midfield, having made almost 100 appearances in all competitions.
The 25-year-old was notably involved in 16 goals during his debut campaign with Rennais. And the midfielder has continued his excellent run of form in the 2018/19 season, despite seeing his overall game-time minimised to an extent. Bourigeaud scored six goals and provided five assists in 34 matches, helping Les Rouge et Noir finish tenth in the league table.
What can Bourigeaud bring to the table?
A central midfielder by trade, Bourigeaud is known for his versatility, having covered a host of different positions during his career. He has featured as a holding midfielder as well as a right midfielder during his time at Lens and Stade Rennais.
He usually likes to operate from the right-hand side of the midfield, where he can either whip in crosses or create chances with his accurate laser passes. He also has an excellent composure on the ball, which allows him to take on defenders and nestle through tight spaces.
The Frenchman notably averaged one key pass and 1.4 shots per game this past season. 0.9 of those shots have come from outside the box. And this serves as an indicator to his willingness to test the ‘keeper from long-range.
Should Arsenal make a move for Bourigeaud?
Bourigeaud will be a cost-effective option for Arsenal in their bid to replace the departing Ramsey next season. Much like the Welshman, the Rennais midfielder is known for his attacking contribution and could add another dimension to the Gunners midfield.
Additionally, key midfielder Lucas Torreira has been linked with a move to AC Milan this summer. Bourigeaud, in that regard, could serve as a potential replacement for the Uruguayan. And at the age of 25, he could be a smart long-term investment for the North London giants.
Stat courtesy: Whoscored
