According to The Mirror, Arsenal are among the clubs interested in the services of Adama Traore. There is a possibility that the Wolverhampton Wanderers’ attacker could leave the club in the summer, putting the Gunners on red alert. However, they could face stiff competition from Premier League leaders Liverpool in the pursuit Adama.
Adama’s success in the Premier League
Adama joined Wolverhampton Wanderers in the summer of 2018, following their promotion to the Premier League. He didn’t exactly enjoy a productive debut campaign but has now become a key member of Nuno Espirito Santo’s men this season, having been involved in 11 goals in 28 matches.
Indeed, Adama has been an upgrade over Helder Costa in the wider attacking role. His pace, combined with his ability to drift past defenders, has added a new dimension to the Wolves attack. In fact, the ex-Barcelona starlet has completed more successful dribbles (145) than anyone else in the Premier League this term.
Aside from his dribbling prowess, the 24-year-old has also shown incredible work ethic. He has attempted 1.6 tackles per game with a success rate of 68%. Also, the Spaniard has been able to become a constant source of creativity from the wider areas of the pitch, notably averaging 1.4 key passes per game.
Why Arsenal must sign Adama
Arsenal’s massive gamble on Nicolas Pepe last summer didn’t work out as expected. The Ivorian is yet to make the desired impact, leaving Mikel Arteta devoid of any reliable wider attacking option. This is combined with the fact that the likes of Mesut Ozil and Reiss Nelson have also failed to impress the onlookers so far.
Therefore, the Gunners are in desperate need of a new attacker, and that’s where Adama comes into the fray. The Wolves attacker should be an ideal fit under Arteta’s system. His dribbling prowess and pace could make them much more unpredictable and effective in the final third, especially on the counter.
But more importantly, the Spaniard’s incredible work-ethic is what makes him an appealing target for Arsenal. While operating as a right-winger, the forward can provide additional support to Hector Bellerin during defensive phases. It will only add a new element to Arsenal’s overall game that has shown a lot of promise during the second half of the campaign.
However, it remains to be seen whether or not Wolves will be willing to part ways with one of their star players this summer. It is also fair to point out that the Gunners are set to face competition from Liverpool, who will be able to offer Champions League football as well as an opportunity to win titles.
Stat courtesy: Whoscored