Arsenal are said to be planning for the summer transfer window ahead of the 2023/24 season.
After leading the race for the majority of the season in a revolutionary year for Mikel Arteta’s side, the Gunners suffered a hammer blow to their title hopes in April.
Despite the title charge coming to an end with the summit in sight, there are plenty of positives for the north Londoners to take from this season, including a top-two finish and confirmation of Champions League football.
Involvement in Europe’s pinnacle competition necessitates maximum squad depth while also competing in the Premier League, as Arsenal has discovered with their Europa League schedule proving detrimental.
William Saliba’s injury was a watershed moment in Arsenal’s title bid, with the centre-back suffering a season-ending back injury in the competition against Sporting CP.
Depth in all areas is essential for the Reds to complete this transfer window, with an introduction to the attack linked in new rumours surrounding the Emirates.
What’s the latest on Xavi Simons’ potential move to Arsenal?
According to The Mirror, Arteta will be “offered” the chance to sign PSV star Xavi Simons this summer.
Due to his impressive performances, the 20-year-old joined the Eredivisie side on a free transfer from PSG last summer and has become a name on the lips of a number of clubs across Europe.
According to the report, rumours linking him to north London stem from his recent switch to Doubled agency, which has extensive links to the club.
What qualities might Xavi Simons bring to Arsenal?
The youngster rose to prominence while growing up in Barcelona’s infamous La Masia system, before moving to France and breaking into PSG’s first team at the age of 17.
The youngster has an aura of stardom surrounding him, with U23 scout Antonio Mango describing him as having “one of the best” football IQs.
His performances this season, primarily in central-attacking midfield, have piqued the interest of many fans, with 16 goals and eight assists in 32 Eredivisie appearances.
The signing of the Dutchman could provide Arsenal with a near-identical replacement for Martin Odegaard, a difficult prospect to comprehend given the Norwegian’s importance in the squad.
The Gunners have a lack of squad depth, particularly in the attacking area of central midfield, where Simons could compete with their captain to improve squad numbers, quality, and individual performance.
Versatility is a key strength for the 20-year-old, who can be used on both wings, unleashed as a goalscorer, and carry a wide threat, as evidenced by his 4.80 progressive carries per 90, according to FBref.
To put these figures in context, Odegaard averages 2.51 points per 90 minutes in this area, demonstrating the ability and threat the youngster possesses and could offer to Arsenal’s Champions League contending squad next season.
With his name in the spotlight this summer, the Amsterdam-born attacker will be one to keep an eye on and could be a worthwhile investment for Arteta’s plans.
