According to Fichajes, Arsenal are among clubs interested in Patrik Schick. The Bayer Leverkusen star has gained a lot of traction following his exploits in the ongoing UEFA Euro 2020. It has put numerous Premier League clubs on red alert, including the Gunners, who have identified Schick as their desired alternative for top target Dominic Calvert-Lewin.
Patrik Schick: Player Profile
Patrik Schick has been a revelation in the Bundesliga since joining RB Leipzig on loan in 2019. He scored ten goals in just 22 matches in his debut campaign in Germany – forming a deadly attacking combination alongside Timo Werner.
He was then shockingly let go by Leipzig, allowing Bayer Leverkusen to sign him for a fee of around €26.5 million. Schick, though, hasn’t had the best of seasons in Leverkusen, scoring just nine goals this past season. He has had to compete with Lucas Alario, which has affected his overall game-time.
As far as gameplay is concerned, Schick is an industrious centre-forward. He offers a lot of work rate in the final third and involves himself in the link-up play rather than playing on the shoulders of the last defender. His support played a vital role in helping Werner enjoy a stellar campaign last term.
A product of the Sparta Prague youth academy, Schick is also a physically competent striker. He isn’t afraid to commit himself in tackles, which has already been prevalent in the ongoing European Championship.
Is Schick A Good Investment For Arsenal?
There is no secret that Arsenal are looking for new strikers this summer. The Gunners haven’t had too much luck with their existing forward this past season. Not to mention, both Alexandre Lacazette and Eddie Nketiah are nearing the end of their contract. A move away from Emirates, therefore, could be on the cards.
That is where someone like Patrik Schick comes into the fray. He might not be a lethal goalscorer, but the forward can offer the technical prowess in the number nine role. His work ethic and an eye on goal might make him a potential upgrade over Alexandre Lacazette at Emirates.
The Czech international perhaps isn’t as robust as Calvert-Lewin. He is, however, capable of linking up with his teammates and helping his team achieve more technical brilliance in the final third.
The 25-year-old isn’t particularly bad with crosses either, though he does prefer low driven ones. It might suit players like Nicolas Pepe and Bukayo Saka, who like to attack the channels against tough opponents. Patrik Schick, therefore, is indeed a smart investment for the Gunners.
