Arsene Wenger’s long ambitions of having a star studded lineup this season could yet be fulfilled. Unlike other seasons, the French manager has already splashed the cash in bringing Alexandre Lacazette from Lyon who has been his long term target.
The Gunners failed to finish in the top four for the first time in the last two decades which further pointed out the need for investing rigorously in new talents. Wenger was expected to get the sack, but contrary to the beliefs, he opted to sign a new two-year deal which started a brand new chapter at the Emirates Stadium.
A host of players are expected to arrive at the Emirates Stadium and according to reports, the veteran Frenchman is chasing Juventus winger Juan Cuadrado. The Columbian has been in his prime form for the Serie-A side and has been a crucial part in the last year in Max Allegri’s plans.
He had an unsuccessful spell at Stamford Bridge as Chelsea brought him from Fiorentina in 2015 but the move turned out to be a disaster and he was shipped on loan to Turin a few months later.
He has been a revelation in the Serie-A as he completely shrugged off his previous difficulties. The departure of Dani Alves would put more pressure on Allegri to keep his star player at the club. The Brazilian full back recently joined Paris Saint Germain in the search for a new challenge which means Cuadrado is destined for a much bigger role next season.
The 29-year-old has made the right wingback role his own, as defenders often find it difficult to stop his marauding run through the flanks. He added to his pace, his silky smooth dribbling to create havoc in the attacking third and Wenger knows a player of his quality will certainly enhance his side’s ability in front of goal next season.
The French gaffer opted to start with a more attacking 3-4-2-1 formation in the last couple of matches and the results have been pretty fascinating. The success of this setup has brought up a huge change in the mindset and he has been in the transfer market for an attacking wingback ever since.
Pre dominantly a winger, Cuadrado mostly played as a wing back under Max Allegri and could emulate the same in the Premier League. Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain is in doldrums regarding his future and there is a huge possibility he might leave the Emirates in the summer. Having just signed permanently for Juventus, Cuadrado’s imminent move is not possible until the Gunners makes an exorbitant offer.
Having just signed permanently for Juventus, Cuadrado’s imminent move is not possible until the Gunners makes an exorbitant offer. But the player will want to prove himself in London and might be ready for this move. Should Wenger make it happen?
