According to Mirror, Arsenal have been dealt a massive blow in their pursuit of Jordan Veretout. It is believed that the Fiorentina midfielder prefers a move to Napoli over Arsenal and is closing in on a move to San Paolo Stadium. Arsenal’s failure to qualify for the UEFA Champions League next season is also said to have played a crucial part in Veretout’s decision to choose Napoli.
And this could be a massive blow for Unai Emery as he continues his search for an Aaron Ramsey replacement. In this article, we will discuss three alternatives the Spaniard could explore in the market this summer.
James Rodriguez
Real Madrid playmaker James Rodriguez could be available in the market this summer after returning from his two-year loan spell at Bayern Munich. And with Zinedine Zidane keen to undergo a massive squad overhaul, the Colombian could well be deemed surplus to the requirements for the Frenchman next season. Los Blancos have already confirmed deals for Luka Jovic and Eden Hazard within the last week or so.
And this will open the door for Arsenal to make a move. The Gunners were linked with a move for the Real Madrid star earlier this year. But, it seems the Colombian was priced out of a move after the European giants slapped a whopping £51 million valuation.
That being said, Arsenal might be able to afford Rodriguez should they get rid of Mesut Ozil this summer. And that would be the right thing to do given how much the German has struggled under Emery this past season.
Youri Tielemans
Youri Tielemans is currently one of the hottest midfield prospects available in the market this summer. The AS Monaco star enjoyed an impressive spell at Leicester City during the second half of the 2018/19 campaign, which has put clubs like Manchester United on red alert.
Tielemans could be an ideal replacement for Aaron Ramsey as he also likes to venture forward and is blessed with immense technical prowess. He is also a threat from long-range and is quite productive when it comes to creating chances. It is believed that Tielemans could cost around £40 million, which is not too bad given the quality of the player. And at the age of 22, he could be a smart long-term investment for the Gunners.
Adrien Rabiot
PSG star Adrien Rabiot is arguably the most in-demand midfielder in the transfer market this summer. The Frenchman was expected to leave PSG after rejecting a contract extension back in December, which, in turn, got him exiled from the club.
Rabiot has been linked with moves to Manchester United and Everton in recent weeks. But, Arsenal also seems like an appealing destination for the Frenchman, who will be keen to revive his career next season.
And a move to Emirates might be the most logical option for the midfielder. He is unlikely to face any problems getting into the starting lineup, thanks to the departure of Ramsey and his inclusion to the side will offer Emery with more tactical flexibility in midfield. The 24-year-old is also quite experienced and has worked with Emery in the past – making him an ideal signing for the Gunners.
