According to Voetbal, Arsenal are among the clubs monitoring the development of Orkun Kökcü. The Feyenoord playmaker has raised a lot of eyebrows with his performances. He is, however, keen on staying at the club for another year.
Meanwhile, the Gunners are joined by Chelsea, Sevilla and Real Betis in the pursuit of Kökcü, who could cost a fortune, should Feyenoord manage to tie him down to a new contract.
Who is Orkun Kökcü?
Kökcü has been a part of the Feyenoord youth setup since an early age before he was promoted to the first-team in 2018. The young playmaker has now featured in 44 competitive matches with the Dutch club, scoring seven goals while mustering nine assists.
A central attacking midfielder by trade, Kökcü may not be the most productive player on the pitch. He has, in fact, been involved in only five goals this season in the Eredivisie. But, what makes him a standout figure at Feyenoord is his ability to create opportunities.
Kökcü has averaged 1.4 key passes per game this season, which is only bettered by Jens Toornstra and Steven Berghuis. The young Turk is also quite useful when it comes to set-pieces as most of his created chances have originated from either crosses or corners.
Another critical feature of Kökcü’s gameplay is his willingness to test the goalkeeper from a distance. Indeed, the 19-year-old has attempted 37 shots on goal this season, 21 of which have come from outside the box. His tally of 37 shots is also the second-highest in the Feyenoord side so far.
Stat courtesy: Whoscored
Is Kökcü ready to take the next step?
Kökcü is undoubtedly one of the most talented players in the Feyenoord squad at the moment. However, he still has a lot to learn before he can take the next step in his career. It is also fair to point out that playmaker also lacks experience at the highest level of football.
But, fortunately for him, he has time on his side, and with the European Championship just around the corner, Kökcü will be given an ideal stage to showcase his credentials at the highest level.
As for Arsenal, they should continue to monitor Kökcü’s progress at Feyenoord. In the meantime, however, making a move for the Feyenoord star won’t make sense, although the player himself wants to remain at the club for another year.
A host of players in the past have been able to make a name for themselves with their performances in international competitions. Kökcü, therefore, is one of the players worth keeping an eye on in the upcoming Euros this summer.
