Arsenal are plotting a move for Watford striker Richarlison when the transfer window opens in the summer. According to recent reports, the Gunners are interested in securing the services of the Brazilian youngster this summer. It is understood that the Hornets are asking for a fee in the region of £40m with Paris Saint-Germain, AS Monaco and Chelsea also keeping tabs on the player.
Richarlison arrived at the Vicarage Road from Fluminense last summer for a fee around £11.2m and has caught the eye with some impressive displays this season. The Brazilian forward got off to a flying start to life in the Premier League, finding the back of the net 5 times in his first 13 matches for the Hornets. However, his form has significantly dipped in recent months under new manager Javi Gracia which will be a cause for concern. The 20-year-old has not scored in any of his past 22 appearances for Watford with his last goal coming versus West Ham United in November last year.
Some sources are now claiming that his hefty £40m price-tag would not be an issue for any of his potential suitors. Richarlison has made 36 appearances for the Hornets this season, scoring 5 goals and providing 5 assists in all competitions.
The Gunners are currently in the 6th position in the Premier League rankings and are just three points behind fifth-placed Chelsea going into the final stretch of the campaign. They recently secured a thrilling 3-2 victory against Southampton on Sunday. However, they have to win the Europa League if they are to secure Champions League football next term.
The addition of Richarlison will undoubtedly bolster Arsene Wenger’s attacking options as they look to close the gap between themselves and their top 4 rivals in the coming years. Arsenal have the likes of Alexandre Lacazette, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, Danny Welbeck and Alex Iwobi vying for a place in Wenger’s senior squad. The potential signing of Richarlison will definitely add more competition for places in the Gunners squad ahead of the new season.
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The Brazilian starlet is highly versatile and can operate in a number of different positions across the frontline. He can be deployed on either flank or as a secondary striker up top which makes him a perfect fit for the North London outfit. Only time will tell what lies ahead in the future of Richarlison and whether he decides to ply his trade at the Emirates Stadium in the near future.
