In a recent report, Sport mentioned that Arsenal are weighing up a move for Barcelona talent Sergi Roberto. It has been claimed that the Gunners are planning to move in for the Spaniard in the January transfer window.
Roberto’s Important Role At The Nou Camp This Season
Roberto has served as a useful presence in Barca’s match-day squad this season as he has put in a few eye-catching displays for them at right-back. The 31-year-old has netted three goals in eight matches for the Catalan outfit during this campaign across multiple competitions.
The Spanish prospect has proven his worth by averaging 1.2 shots and 0.6 key passes per game in La Liga. He was even accurate when distributing possession after completing 93.4% of his attempted passes in top-flight football (stats via whoscored).
Roberto is under contract at the Nou Camp until the end of this campaign which could open the door for the Gunners to sign him on the cheap in the upcoming winter transfer period.
Should Arsenal Boss Mikel Arteta Snap Roberto Up?
Roberto is a tough-tackling player who can time his challenges well to secure the ball back for his side. He can shoot the ball accurately from long range and can create the odd chance for his teammates in the opponent’s half. However, the Spanish sensation has struggled to earn a regular spot in Xavi’s first team and could welcome a change of scenery in search of more playing time next summer.
Roberto is primarily a right-back but can also operate as a box-to-box midfielder or as a defensive midfielder if told to do so. He will inject more quality and depth into Arsenal head coach Mikel Arteta‘s squad. However, it remains to be seen whether the Spaniard can adapt to the physical nature and high intensity of Premier League football.
At 31, Roberto might still have a couple of seasons left in him to play at a high level. He could help the Gunners compete across all fronts over the next few years. Thus, it makes sense for the North London club to go all out to snap him up on a cut-price deal in the January transfer window.
