In a recent report, Goal.com stated that Arsenal are showing interest in Olympique Lyonnais talent Lucas Paqueta. It has been claimed that the Gunners are eyeing a move for the Brazilian midfielder but Lyon are demanding €80m for him.
Paqueta’s Impressive Form In French Football Last Season
Paqueta caught the eye with his performances for the French club in the final third last season and is currently amongst the best midfielders in Ligue 1. The 24-year-old featured in 43 matches for Lyon in the previous campaign, netting 11 goals and picking up seven assists in various competitions.
The Brazilian sensation gave a good account of himself by averaging 2.5 shots, 1.2 key passes and 2.3 dribbles per game in Ligue 1 football. He was even tidy when distributing the ball in the opponent’s half, as evidenced by his pass success rate of 79.6% in the French top-flight (stats via whoscored).
Should Arsenal Boss Mikel Arteta Bring Paqueta On Board This Summer?
Paqueta is proficient at creating space for himself in the opposition half to get a few shots in on-target. He is a good finisher in the final third and can even create some decent chances for his teammates up top. Paqueta is primarily an attacking midfielder but can even feature as a box-to-box midfielder or a winger on the right flank if needed.
The Brazilian sensation is a technically gifted footballer, so Arsenal will do well to lure him to the Emirates Stadium before the end of this summer transfer window. He is good enough to serve an important role in Mikel Arteta‘s squad over the next few years.
At 24, Paqueta will only improve his all-around game in the coming seasons. He has what it takes to become a future star at the North London club as long as he can cope with the physical nature and high intensity of Premier League football.
We can expect Paqueta to add more energy and dynamism to Arteta’s midfield department in the English capital. He could even help Arsenal get back to securing a top-four spot in English football next season. Thus, the Gunners should focus on bringing the South American playmaker on board this summer.
