According to a recent report by Don Balon (translated by the Daily Express), Arsenal have launched an enquiry for Real Madrid centre-forward Mariano Díaz ahead a potential move this summer. The same source has revealed that the Dominican Republic striker would be available for £18m in this off-season.
In an interview after Real Madrid’s penalty shoot-out win over Arsenal on Tuesday night (via Marca), Los Blancos boss Zinedine Zidane shed some light on Diaz’s future and said,
“I don’t have a plan for Mariano.
“He is training with us and I have to name a team.
“We’ll see what happens in the third match.”
It is clear from Zidane’s words that he does not have a plan for the La Liga sensation, which could open the doors for the Gunners to land him during this summer transfer period. However, Marca has also claimed that Diaz does not want to leave the Spanish capital.
Diaz’s Lack Of Game Time At The Spanish Capital
The Spanish born prospect was a sporadic feature at the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium, but he still managed to put in a few goal-scoring displays for Madrid in the previous campaign. The 25-year-old made 22 appearances for the Galacticos last season, scoring four goals across all competitions. The Badalona youth product has only represented the Dominican Republic once during his international career, but he did manage to score in that game.
What Will Diaz Bring To The Emirates Stadium?
Diaz boasts blistering pace, which allows him to make some well-timed runs behind the opposition backline. He can also dribble with the ball at high speed to cause a lot of problems for the opposing defenders. The ex-Olympique Lyonnais striker has incredible strength and is a dominant presence in the air. However, he needs to add more end-product to his game if he wants to succeed at the highest level.
Maybe a change of scenery could help Diaz fulfil his true potential, but Arsenal are in no position to take a gamble on him. Unai Emery is in dire need for players who have proven their worth at the top level. However, the acquisition of Diaz will undoubtedly improve the overall depth of the Gunners squad, which might help them to compete on all fronts next season.
At 25, the Madrid frontman has his peak years ahead of him which the North London outfit could look to benefit from over the next few seasons. Even then, Emery will be better off looking at players to bolster his defensive options at the Emirates Stadium this summer. After all, let’s not forget the fact that Arsenal have Aubameyang and Lacazette in their squad.
