According to Sheffield Star, Arsenal are eyeing a summer swoop for Sander Berge. The Gunners are exploring the possibility of signing the Sheffield United midfielder in light of the Blades’ likely relegation. However, they could face competition from arch-rivals Tottenham Hotspur while other London clubs are interested in the services of Berge this summer.
Sander Berge: Player Profile
Sander Berge was one of Sheffield United’s high profile transfer at the start of last year, joining from KRC Gent for a fee of €24 million. The midfielder endured a rather slow start to his career in England, before eventually becoming a key first-team regular under Chris Wilder during the first half of the campaign.
A holding midfielder by trade, Berge is yet to win a single league game in his 13 appearances, before the player, unfortunately, picked up a leg injury around Christmas. However, that hasn’t deterred the suitors as they are well aware of the qualities the player offers in the middle of the park.
Indeed, the Norwegian international has a high work-rate who has averaged almost four tackles per game this season. He has also been involved in over two aerial duels per game while making 1.4 clearances. It is indicative of the 23-year-old’s work ethic and willingness to win back possession for his team.
Additionally, Berge is an efficient ball-carrier, blessed with vision and technical qualities – making him a well rounded defensive midfielder.
Stat courtesy: Whoscored
Can Sander Berge Solve Arsenal’s Problems?
A move away from Bramall Lane is on the horizon for Sander Berge, as Sheffield United near the dreaded path of relegation. Arsenal, in that regard, could turn out to be an interesting destination for the former Valerenga prodigy, whose technical game and ability to carry the ball around should help thrive in the more possession-based style of football.
The Norwegian international should also offer Mikel Arteta some much-needed depth in central midfield, especially as the club brace itself for the departure of both Dani Ceballos and Martin Odegaard. Their respective loan contracts with Arsenal expire at the end of the season, paving the way for Berge to compete with Granit Xhaka and Thomas Partey in the double-pivot.
However, Arsenal’s pursuit of Berge could largely depend on Sheffield United’s valuation of the player. Given the current nature of the market after the pandemic, the Gunners certainly cannot afford to spend more than €25 million for the midfielder, especially if they continue to prioritise a permanent move for Odegaard this summer.
