In a recent report, The Guardian has revealed that Brighton and Hove Albion midfielder Yves Bissouma is on Arsenal’s radar during this January transfer window. It is believed that the Gunners boss Mikel Arteta is keen on bringing the Seagulls midfield ace to the Emirates Stadium this month (via The Guardian).
Bissouma’s Impressive Form In The Premier League This Season
The Issia-born talent has established himself as a valuable member of Graham Potter’s dressing room as he has served as a decent squad player at the American Express Community Stadium over the past few years. Bissouma has featured in 20 matches for the Lancashire outfit this term, scoring two goals and picking up six yellow cards and one red card in the process on all fronts.
The 24-year-old has caught the eye by influencing the game at both ends of the field as he is averaging 3.0 tackles, 1.0 interceptions, 1.7 clearances, 1.1 shots and 1.6 dribbles per game in the Premier League. He has even distributed possession relatively well from midfield as evidenced by his pass success rate of 86.3% in the English first division (stats via whoscored).
Bissouma’s current contract with Brighton is set to expire in the summer of 2023, so Potter will be under no pressure to sell him. However, the player could be tempted with the opportunity to make a move to the Emirates Stadium, where he will get a chance to experience some European football in the future.
What Are The Mali International’s Best Attributes?
Bissouma possesses good defensive awareness and can make some hard tackles to earn possession back for his team. He is also quick to react to the danger and is not afraid to clear his lines at the back when needed. Plus, the former Lille midfield enforcer is versatile enough to operate in both a defensive or an attacking role in central midfield.
The 14-time Mail international has got the energy to make some driving runs in the opposition half and can strike the ball with power from long range. He is also a decent ball-playing midfielder who won’t have too much trouble settling into Arteta’s brand of football at North London.
Why Potter Cannot Afford To Lose Bissouma This Month
Bissouma has made himself a real asset in Potter’s match-day squad. Therefore, the Brighton manager simply cannot afford to sanction his departure this month as he won’t have much time to sign a suitable replacement before Monday’s transfer deadline. The Seagulls would be better off keeping hold of the ex-Ligue 1 midfielder at least until the end of this campaign before reassessing their options for the future. At 24, Bissouma is about to embark upon the prime stage of his playing career, so his market value would only increase if Brighton manage to keep hold of him for a few more seasons.
