According to Evening Standard, Arsenal have identified Yacine Brahimi as their desired alternative for top target Wilfried Zaha. The Gunners were reportedly rebuffed in their attempts to sign the Crystal Palace star, with the Eagles rejecting a £40 million opening offer. And it seems unlikely that the North London side will be able to meet Zaha’s £80 million valuation.
Hence, a move for Brahimi could be on the horizon. The ex-FC Porto star chose to run down his contract with the Portuguese giants last season and is now available for free this summer. He reportedly wants a £3 million signing on fee, though that shouldn’t deter the North London giants.
Brahimi’s spell at Porto
Brahimi joined Porto way back in 2014 in a €6.5 million move from Granada. He since then became a pivotal part of the Dragao attack, having made over 200 appearances across all competitions. During his five year spell at the club, Brahimi scored 54 goals and mustered 43 assists – making him one of the most productive players for Porto during that period.
The 29-year-old enjoyed the most prolific season of his career in the recently concluded 2018/19 campaign, where he plundered ten goals. His exploits in front of goal helped FC Porto make a strong push for the Primeira Liga title, although SL Benfica did manage to edge them by just two points at the end.
What can Brahimi bring to the table?
A left winger by trade, Brahimi is known for his ingenuity in the final third. He is a direct winger, who loves to take on defenders and is capable of breaking down the opposition with his dynamic movements. The Algerian international notably completed 2.6 dribbles per game last season as well as providing 1.1 key passes.
Aside from that, Brahimi is also a versatile operator in the final third. He can feature in the lone attacking midfield role and even as a secondary striker if needed. And this makes it easier for managers to accomodate him in their respective attacking units.
Should Arsenal consider a move for Brahimi?
It’s probably needless to say that Brahimi has the quality to thrive in a league as competitive as the Premier League. He has the quality as well as the experience, and the fact that he is available for free makes him an ideal target for Arsenal given their slender transfer budget this summer.
Hence, the Gunners should definitely shift their attention towards this talented Algerian winger, whose status as a free agent will allow Unai Emery to splash the cash on the other areas of the pitch.
Stat courtesy: Whoscored
