According to Sampnews24, Arsenal are set to raid Sampdoria once again in the pursuit of Dennis Praet and Joachim Anderson. The Gunners were rebuffed in their earlier attempt to sign the duo. But, it is now believed that they are ready to table a stunning €50 million bid for the two players as they look to add more quality to their squad this summer.
Praet, in particular, is an exciting option given the fact that the playmaker could provide competition to the likes of Henrikh Mkhitaryan and Mesut Ozil next season. But what will he bring to the table?
Praet’s success at Sampdoria
Since transferring to Italy back in 2016 in a €10 million move from RSC Anderlecht, Praet has become a key component of the Sampdoria midfield. The Belgian international has already notched up over 100 competitive appearances for the Blucerchiati.
During the 2018/19 campaign, Praet played a critical role in adding more stability in midfield and was even used as a deep-lying playmaker at times. He ended the season making 34 league appearances, scoring two goals and registering three assists.
What can Praet bring to the table?
Praet is generally an attack-minded midfielder, who likes to venture forward and thread in through balls. The 25-year-old has excellent composure on the ball that is coupled with his positional awareness. He has averaged 1.1 key passes per game this past season along with 1.9 tackles, which is indicative of his willingness to win back possession.
Praet has neat footwork as well that enables him to drift past defenders and act as the ball carrier. The Belgian has completed 1.1 successful dribbles per game. Also, he has attempted 34 shots on goal, 23 of which have come outside the box. That means he isn’t afraid to have a go from long-range – making a useful midfield component for any club.
Where does Praet fit it at Arsenal?
Praet will be a smart addition to Arsenal given their lack of creative midfielders. Both Ozil and Mkhitaryan have struggled with form this past campaign. The Belgian, in that regard, will be able to serve not only as a back-up but also as a first-team option for Unai Emery.
Praet can be utilised in many ways thanks to his versatility in midfield. But, the most logical move from Emery will be to deploy him in the attacking midfield role, in case of a 4-2-3-1 or a 3-4-1-2. Alternatively, he can operate in the double-pivot alongside Lucas Torreira. But, his lack of physicality could create problems, especially in the physically demanding nature of the Premier League.
One thing is for sure – Praet is an exceptionally talented individual, who can add more quality and depth into the Arsenal midfield as they look to kickstart a new era under Emery next season.
Stat courtesy: Whoscored
