According to a recent report by HLN (via the Daily Express), Arsenal are hoping to make an offer to bring VfB Stuttgart midfield ace Orel Mangala to North London. However, the same source has also mentioned that the Gunners will face strong competition from Olympique Lyonnais, Marseille, LOSC Lille and AS Roma in pursuit of the £26m-rated Belgian prospect.
Mangala’s Impressive Rise In German Football
Since sealing a move from Anderlecht, the Brussel-born talent managed to establish himself as a regular starter in the Bundesliga. He managed to help Stuttgart secure a 7th placed finish on his debut season in Germany. However, Mangala was loaned out to Hamburger SV last season where he caught the eye after putting in a string of outstanding displays in the Bundesliga 2.
With Stuttgart getting relegated from the German top-flight in the previous campaign, the 21-year-old has returned from his loan spell and has continued to flourish in the second tier of Germany. He has featured in 13 matches for Tim Walter’s this term and has one assist to his name across all competitions. The Belgian has averaged 1.2 shots, 0.8 key passes and 2.5 dribbles in the Bundesliga 2 this season (stats via whoscored).
Mangala is currently an integral member of the Belgian Under-21 side having made nine international appearances for them thus far.
What Are The Belgian Starlet’s Strengths And Weaknesses?
Mangala has decent pace and excels when dribbling with the ball from midfield. He loves to play as a box to box midfielder as he doesn’t mind covering a lot of ground for the benefit of his team. The Belgian U-21 international has the engine to put in a tireless shift at the centre of the park. However, he needs to be more productive going forward if he intends to break into the world-class bracket someday.
Is Mangala The Right Choice For The Gunners?
The Gunners could benefit from acquiring an energetic player like Mangala. However, Unai Emery’s current midfield options lack creativity and dynamism which the Belgian would not be able to provide if he decides to move to England. Mangala’s qualities are quite similar to what Matteo Guendouzi and Lucas Torreira have brought to Arsenal.
Therefore, Emery is better off focusing on bringing in more creative options rather than go for hard-working players in the upcoming transfer window.
