According to the latest transfer news from Italy, Arsenal are now favorites to sign Atalanta star Rasmus Hojlund in exchange for Mikel Arteta.
Who is Arsenal aiming for?
The Gunners, led by sporting director Edu, who oversees the club’s transfer business, are said to have identified a few potential targets ahead of the summer transfer window. The Premier League title contenders have had a strong 2022/2023 season after finishing fourth to archrivals Tottenham last season, with Arteta’s men currently eight points ahead of champions Manchester City.
As things stand, the north Londoners are on track to win their first league title in nearly 20 years, but as all big clubs do, there must also be an eye on strengthening for the following season.
According to reports, Arsenal is ‘pushing’ to sign Eintracht Frankfurt midfielder Jesper Lindstrom even before the summer window opens, despite the Bundesliga club’s growing acceptance of losing their star player. The Denmark international is a serious target for Arteta and co, but Calciomercato reports that Lindstrom isn’t the only Dane on Arsenal’s radar.
According to the Italian news outlet, Arsenal are currently favourites to sign Hojlund from Atalanta this summer, having entered ‘pole position’ for his services. Juventus are also interested in Hojlund, who they see as a potential replacement for striker Dusan Vlahovic if he leaves.
However, with Arsenal leading the race, it is claimed that Juve must act quickly if they are to sign the 20-year-old, and his €45 million (£40m) asking price is expected to rise.
Should Hojlund be signed by Arsenal?
Only Ademola Lookman has more goals for Atalanta than Hojlund. He has seven league goals this season while averaging their joint-second highest rate of goal attempts per 90 minutes, highlighting his obvious threat. (WhoScored). This has resulted in 19 goal contributions throughout the campaign.
In comparison, despite an injury-plagued season, Gabriel Jesus has only contributed 12 goals.
The 6 foot 3 ace also has a lot of physicality, which could help him adapt quickly to English top flight football, with the media praising that aspect of his game.
Hojlund has been described as’scary quick’ by journalist Sacha Pisani and a ‘beast’ by football talent scout Jacek Kulig, and his value is skyrocketing. Of course, Edu will have to decide whether he is worth the £40 million investment, but there is clearly a player with real potential there.
