According to Independent, Arsenal are keeping tabs on Stade Rennais midfielder Eduardo Camavinga. The Congolese midfielder has become one of the hottest prospects in the league after enjoying a breakthrough campaign in Ligue 1 last season. However, the Gunners could face stiff competition from Premier League rivals in Manchester United, Manchester City and Tottenham Hotspur.
Camavinga’s rapid rise to prominence
Born in Miconje, Angola, Camavinga has been a part of the Stade Rennais youth academy since 11. But following his excellent performances in the youth leagues, the youngster was promoted to the first team at the start of this year, aged only 16.
The youngster wasn’t a first-team player for Rennes. But, his performances during the backend of the 2018/19 campaign raised a lot of eyebrows across France. He ended the corresponding season, appearing in seven league matches. And this season, the 16-year-old has started both of Rennes’ games while also featuring in the Supercup.
Camavinga notably starred in Rennais’ impressive win over champions Paris Saint-Germain on the weekend. He assisted Romain Del Castillo’s second-half header as the Red and Blacks ended their terrible record against the Parisians.
What can he bring to the table?
A holding midfielder by trade, Camavinga is an excellent anchorman in the middle of the park. He can augment the midfield with his remarkable passing range, with the youngster attaining an incredible pass completion rate of 97% in the first two games this season. He can also make strong tackles and win back possession for his team.
But, what makes Camavinga such a unique holding midfielder is his ability to carry the ball across half-spaces. Indeed, the 16-year-old loves to make darting runs across the opposition half, thus giving his teammates additional attacking support in the final third.
Should Arsenal make a move for Camavinga?
Camavinga has already shown he is capable of playing at a higher level of football, having impressed the onlookers at such a young age. However, Arsenal’s potential move for the Congolese midfielder will mainly depend on how much he might cost.
Besides, it’s doubtful whether or not Rennes would want to get rid of their prized asset just one year after promoting him to the senior side. Therefore, it’s unlikely Camavinga will move anywhere anytime soon. He is, however, a viable target and could be groomed into an ideal defensive midfielder Arsenal have been missing for quite some time now.
