With only three weeks remaining in the transfer window, Arsenal will look to add some flair and creativity into their ranks. Mikel Arteta and Edu Gasper have done well by adding Nuno Tavares, Albert Sambi Lokonga and Ben White to the squad. However, Arteta has received a major boost in the persuasion of current Manchester City winger Bernardo Silva as claimed by Mirror.
Silva’s Magical Spell At Manchester City
Bernardo Silva arrived at City from AS Monaco in 2017. He was often deployed on the right-wing to accommodate David Silva through the middle. Since the latter’s departure in 2020, Bernardo flourished alongside Kevin De-Bruyne.
The 26-year-old Portuguese winger has 131 appearances for the blue half of Manchester, with 21 goals and 26 assists to his name. He was instrumental for Pep Guardiola as City finished runners-up in the UEFA Champions League last season.
The record purchase of Jack Grealish from Aston Villa however has put Silva’s spot in the first team in jeopardy. City manager Guardiola admitted in his recent press conference that the Portuguese winger might leave before the transfer window closes.
How Silva Might Fit In At Arsenal
Mikel Arteta was assistant to Pep Guardiola at Manchester City during his initial years. He must be aware of the brilliance of the Portuguese winger, who formed quite a relationship with the Spaniard. Arteta has managed to solidify his squad by bringing reinforcements at the back and the midfield. However, he is yet to add any attacking flair to the squad.
Arsenal looked quite settled at the back during the second half of last season. The main concern of Mikel Arteta should still be their lack of attacking prowess. Emile Smith-Rowe, Gabriel Martinelli, Bukayo Saka and Joe Willock are exciting prospects, but their lack of experience was evident last season.
Bernardo Silva usually plays at the right-wing due to Guardiola’s preference of De-Bruyne through the middle. At Arsenal Silva might just be allowed the freedom to play behind the strikers and pulling the wingers into the attack. Arteta does face a dilemma on whether to pursue James Maddison of Leicester City or Silva, but Silva might be a better fit for the Spaniard due to his versatility.
Arsenal will face huge competition from Atletico Madrid and Barcelona to sign the Portuguese but will be benefitted the most if any deal is struck with the player.
