In a recent report, The Independent has claimed that Arsenal are willing to make a player-plus-cash offer for Norwich City playmaker Emiliano Buendia. It is believed that Joe Willock and Reiss Nelson are among the players the Gunners are prepared to give up to convince the Canaries to sell their prized asset during this January transfer window (via The Independent).
Buendia’s Incredible Season In English Football
Buendia has enjoyed a brilliant season at Carrow Road after putting in a run of productive performances on the ride side of Daniel Farke’s attack. He has participated in 19 matches for the Canaries this term, scoring seven goals and securing seven assists in the EFL Championship.
The 24-year-old has influenced the game at both ends of the field after averaging 2.3 tackles, 0.6 interceptions, 1.6 clearances, 3.1 shots, 3.3 key passes and 1.6 dribbles per game in the English second division. However, Buendia needs to improve his ball-distribution as he has made 77.1% of his attempted passes in league football (stats via whoscored).
Buendia’s recent form proves that he is too good for the Championship, so he could be tempted with the opportunity to join a top club like Arsenal during this winter transfer period. Mikel Arteta is also in dire need to add more quality to his squad following the disappointing form of Willian this season.
What Does The Argentine Winger Bring To The Table?
Buendia is a quick and agile winger who can complete some dangerous dribbles in the opposition half. He boasts excellent ball control and has a low centre of gravity that allows him to cause many problems for his marker. He has even got the eye to play a killer pass in the final third.
The Argentine playmaker has banged in some important goals for the Canaries this season. However, the jury is still out on whether he can maintain his high standards in the Premier League where he struggled to give a good account of himself last season.
Is Buendia The Right Fit For The Gunners?
Arteta can benefit from recruiting an up-and-coming talent like Buendia, who has taken great strides towards improving himself during this campaign. At 24, the Argentine sensation is about to embark upon the prime years of his playing career, so the Gunners can expect to get the best out of him if they can find a way to get a deal done for him this month.
Buendia will bring more goals and creativity to the Emirates Stadium and would currently serve as an upgrade over Willian, who has failed to be productive with his performances of late. He will also increase competition for places within Arteta’s squad which makes him a good fit for the North London outfit in the long-run.