In a recent column with The Daily Star, Paul Merson urged his former club Arsenal to make a move for Chelsea forward Romelu Lukaku. Merson believes that the Gunners should solve their attacking concerns by launching a cheeky £60m bid for the Belgian international this summer.
Lukaku’s Impressive Form In English Football
The Antwerpen-born talent endured an underwhelming campaign at Stamford Bridge as he struggled to score goals regularly for the Blues over the past ten months. The 29-year-old has found the back of the net 15 times and secured two assists in 44 matches for the West London club last season in multiple competitions.
The Belgian international could only manage to average 1.7 shots, 0.9 key passes and 0.5 dribbles per game in Premier League football. However, he needs to improve his link-up play in the attacking end of the pitch, as evidenced by his pass completion rate of 72.9% in the English first division (stats via whoscored).
Should Arsenal Boss Mikel Arteta Go For Lukaku This Summer?
Lukaku can use his powerful 1.91m to dominate the opposition centre-backs in the air and can hold the ball up with his back to goal. He can be a decent finisher in the attacking end of the field when he is playing with confidence on the field. Furthermore, Lukaku can be a potent threat in the air during indirect set-pieces.
However, things have not worked out for the Belgian striker on his return to Stamford Bridge. Thus, Arsenal might have a chance of landing Lukaku if they decide to listen to Merson’s advice by launching a move for him this summer.
The Chelsea forward would add a lot of goals and physicality to Mikel Arteta‘s frontline. He would serve as an upgrade over Alexandre Lacazette and Eddie Nketiah at the Emirates Stadium.
At 29, Lukaku has still got a few good years left in him to play his best football. Hence, the Gunners can expect to get the best out of him if they can manage to lure him to North London during this summer transfer period. Lukaku could help Arsenal secure a top-four place in the Premier League next season which is why Arteta should think about going in for the Belgian powerhouse this off-season.