According to L’Equipe, as cited by Express, Moussa Dembele has emerged as the latest target for Arsenal. The Olympique Lyonnais star has been reportedly identified as the desired replacement for Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, who has been linked with a move away from Emirates.
However, Arsenal could face competition in the pursuit of Dembele, with Chelsea and Manchester United also keen on securing his services.
How has Moussa Dembele fared this season?
Dembele made quite an impact in his debut campaign in Ligue 1, scoring 15 goals in 33 matches. And he has been able to replicate those performances in the recently concluded season. In fact, he has eclipsed his first-season exploits, having netted 16 goals in just 27 matches.
The Frenchman’s productivity in the front of the goal was one of the few bright spots in an otherwise disappointing season for Lyon. It is firmly backed by the fact that Dembele had scored almost 40% of the club’s total goals in the league.
The ex-Celtic sensation has indeed impressed the onlookers with his brilliant conversion rate. It is combined with his physical prowess and tenacious nature, providing Lyon with a sizable presence in the final third.
However, given the club’s recent struggles, it might be time for Dembele to seek pastures new in the upcoming summer transfer window. And a move to Premier League might not necessarily be a bad option, with Arsenal emerging as an ideal destination.
Can Dembele replace Aubameyang at Arsenal?
Much like Lyon, Arsenal have endured a disappointing campaign. And their underachievement in recent years means they are running the risk of losing star striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang in the summer.
Dembele, in that regard, should fit in nicely at the club. His pace and physicality make him a tailor-made fit in the Premier League, thus providing additional bite to the Arsenal attack as well as making them much more deadly on the counter. Also, like Aubameyang, the Frenchman boasts an excellent conversion rate.
Dembele does, however, lack the versatility of his Gabonese counterpart. But, the former Celtic man’s dynamic nature in the attack, as well as his physical and aerial prowess, arguably makes him a more accomplished striker. And with his national team compatriot Alexandre Lacazette seemingly struggling to find the back of the net, he could turn out to be a smart coup for Arsenal.
That being said, it will undoubtedly be difficult for the Gunners to secure the services of Lyon star, who has been courted by other clubs as well. Hence, we could potentially witness a bidding war this summer.
