According to Todofichajes, West Ham are leading Arsenal in pursuit of Boulaye Dia. The Reims forward is on the verge of a move to the London Stadium, as the club’s desired replacement for Sebastien Haller. The Hammers appear to have moved ahead of Arsenal and Manchester United in the race to sign Dia, who is expected to cost around €16 million.
Who Is Boulaye Dia?
Boulaye Dia has been quite a success story following his transfer to Stade Reims in the summer of 2018. Although the striker only scored three goals in his debut campaign in Ligue 1, he has only improved since. And this time around, the striker has registered an awe-inspiring 12 goals in just 17 appearances so far.
Standing at 1.80m, Dia is a sharpshooter who is primarily known for his finishing. The 24-year-old has averaged over two shots on goal per game, reflecting quite a healthy conversion rate. In addition, he is blessed with the pace and the ability to thrive even under pressure.
As such, Dia is quite a menace when it comes to counter-attacks. Another key asset for the Reims forward is that he can withstand pressure from the opposing defenders. It could make him an ideal player for the physically astute nature of the Premier League.
Stat courtesy: Whoscored
Do Arsenal Need Boulaye Dia?
Arsenal have had a difficult time scoring goals this season. Their star striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang has struggled with form while Eddie Nketiah’s future at Emirates remains seemingly uncertain.
However, the recent emergence of Alexandre Lacazette has given them quite a boost in the goalscoring unit. But more importantly, the Gunners have now found an excellent source of creativity by deploying Emile Smith Rowe in the number ten role.
It essentially means that Arsenal can now afford to set their sights on a different position rather than going after a striker in this January transfer window. They could preferably look for an experienced playmaker, who can provide some healthy competition for Smith Rowe in the number ten position.
A wise option could Julian Brandt of Borussia Dortmund. The German international has had a difficult time at Signal Iduna Park and has most of the characteristics that could make him a real asset at the Emirates under Mikel Arteta.
