According to Calciomercato, as cited by The Sun, Dalian Yifang are preparing a move for Dries Mertens, which should pave the way for Arsenal target Yannick Ferreira Carrasco to leave the club in January. The Belgian was linked with a return to Europe earlier this summer, though a move didn’t materialise. But, it looks as if the Gunners will finally have a chance to sign the winger in the upcoming winter transfer window.
In this article, we will discuss three key reasons why Arsenal need to sign Ferreira Carrasco.
A replacement for Henrikh Mkhitaryan
Arsenal quite expectedly offloaded Henrikh Mkhitaryan this summer, though only on a temporary basis. The Armenian international has joined AS Roma on a season-long loan deal. He was struggling to provide consistent performances, and the move away from Emirates made a lot of sense.
But at the same time, it opened a considerable void in the attacking department. And that’s where Ferreira Carrasco could come into the fray. The Belgian, though a left-winger, can fit in as the Mkhitaryan replacement. Besides, the Armenian captain’s contract expires in 2021, and it’s unlikely he’ll prolong his stay in north London.
Therefore, Carrasco could be considered as a replacement for Mkhitaryan as Arsenal look usher in a new era under Emery.
Reiss Nelson’s early struggles
Offloading two key wingers in Mkhitaryan and Alex Iwobi only highlighted the faith Arsenal had on the services of Reiss Nelson. The young winger was coming on the back of a successful stint at TSG Hoffenheim last season. But, things haven’t gone as smoothly in the Premier League this term.
Nelson has only featured in two games so far, notably being left out from the starting lineup against Liverpool and Tottenham Hotspur. And if the 19-year-old continues to struggle at Emirates this season, it could definitely force Arsenal to sign Ferreira Carrasco.
The ex-Atleti star can start over Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, allowing Emery to deploy the Gabonese international in a more useful central role.
Mesut Ozil’s uncertain future
Mesut Ozil has already been a subject of several off-field issues within the past 12 months. And on the pitch, he has struggled to integrate into Emery’s tactical setup. As a result, his long-term future at Arsenal is uncertain, especially considering his hefty wages.
Although Carrasco is not an attacking midfielder, he can fill the creative void that will be present following the potential departure of Ozil. Joe Willock is an exciting candidate, but he is still too young to be integrated into the first-team. Hence, the Dalian Yifang star is indeed a viable target for the Gunners.
