According to Il Mattino, Dries Mertens is still facing an uncertain future at the club, after failing to agree to a new contract at Napoli. As a result, the Belgian international has emerged as a top target in the market for Atletico Madrid, with Diego Simeone favouring the player. However, they could face stiff competition from Arsenal, who have been following Mertens for the past two months along with Manchester United.
What do Arsenal need this summer?
In the attacking department, Arsenal boast the services of a host of talented player across the world. Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, in particular, has emerged as one of the best strikers in football, following his incredible success in the Premier League. He has netted a whopping 61 goals in just 97 games since joining Arsenal in January 2018.
However, his days at Emirates could be numbered. With the Gunners constantly underachieving over the past few years, the Gabonese international has been linked with a move away from north London. Clubs like Barcelona and Manchester United have already courted the ex-Dortmund striker this season.
Aubameyang’s potential departure will create a massive void in Arsenal’s attack. Alexandre Lacazette has not really been able to fill the gap as far as productivity is concerned. Therefore, manager Mikel Arteta needs a new striker, who can replace Aubameyang and prove himself lethal in front of goal.
Why Arsenal must sign Mertens
Mertens has been one of the most consistent and successful strikers in Europe over the past few years. Especially after being transformed into a number nine under Maurizio Sarri, the Belgian has been scoring goals for fun. He has netted as many as 68 goals in just 129 Serie A matches since the start of the 2016/17 campaign.
Mertens, therefore, could be considered as a direct replacement for Aubameyang. Unlike any young, inexperienced forward, the Napoli star is unlikely to take time settling into the Premier League and will instantly add more bite to the Arsenal frontline.
This is thanks to his vast experience at the highest level of football, with the 32-year-old having mustered over 300 appearances for Napoli while winning 90 caps for Belgium.
Moreover, Mertens’s current contract with Napoli expires at the end of the campaign. That means he will be available as a free-agent – making him a financially viable target for an Arsenal side who might have to operate on a limited budget in the summer due to the Coronavirus pandemic.
