According to the Mirror, Arsenal are ready to let Mesut Ozil leave on loan in the upcoming January transfer window. And given the fact that his hefty wages could be an issue for interested parties, they are willing to pay part of his wages to try and ship him out on loan.
Now it’s unlikely the Gunners will be able to sanction any big-money transfers in January. But in this article, we will talk about three players Arsenal could target as a potential long-term replacement for Ozil next summer.
Jack Grealish
Jack Grealish has made an early impression after Aston Villa’s highly anticipated return to the Premier League. The 25-year-old has been critical to Villa’s rise back to the top-flight and is still a key component in Dean Smith’s setup this season.
Grealish is known for his tenacity and work-ethic while he can also create chances – potentially making him a better fit for Unai Emery’s system than Ozil, who has lacked enthusiasm and mobility in the final third. In addition, the Aston Villa academy product can play as a deep-lying playmaker as well.
Grealish can surely add another dimension and more versatility to Arsenal’s midfield as the Gunners look to usher in a new era under Emery.
Nicolo Zaniolo
After a promising debut campaign at AS Roma, Nicolo Zaniolo became one of the most in-demand playmakers of the summer transfer window. Even though a move failed to materialise, he could be an excellent replacement for Ozil next summer.
A product of the Genoa youth academy, Zaniolo is an excellent ball-carrier. His ability to nestle through tight spaces and make incisive passes into the final third makes him an effective playmaker. Additionally, the Italian international is adept in playing one-touch football, which tunes in well with Emery’s system.
Zaniolo, however, has made a stuttering start to the new campaign. But, that should improve as soon when the midfielder receives more game-time at Roma.
James Maddison
Likely the most expensive player on this list, James Maddison is also the only player here who has actually proved himself in the Premier League. Indeed, the former Norwich City starlet was one of the league’s best players last season, scoring seven goals and registering seven assists.
The Leicester City playmaker provided more key passes than any other player in the league. Most of his created chances originated from set-pieces, which is indicative of Maddison’s proficiency from dead-ball situations. The 22-year-old also has a knack for scoring goals.
Most importantly, Maddison will offer more versatility as he primarily plays as an attacking midfielder but can operate a winger as well if required. But, it remains to be seen whether or Arsenal can afford him next summer, especially if he can improve on his performances from last season.
