As Euro 2016 continues to roll on and dominate the headlines, there are worrying reports that key attacking targets Jamie Vardy and Henrikh Mkhitaryan will turn down Arsenal’s offers, the Gunners consequently need to look elsewhere for summer reinforcements and fast.
The first name that is rumoured to be on Wenger’s updated shopping list is Mario Götze. The Germany star has endured a tough time at Bayern after his highly controversial move from Borussia Dortmund, and has since been linked with a move away from his homeland with Arsenal a potential location (via The Sun).
Götze can be deployed as a false 9, or behind the striker and displays the kind of flexibility that Wenger is known to favour. While he won’t come cheap, for between £20 and £30 million bringing a player of that calibre to the Emirates would be a big boost to Arsenal’s chances next season.
The World Cup winner can also operate on the flanks and provide a more than able deputy to compatriot Mesut Ozil, hardly a bad idea considering the lack of No.10’s now available.
While Vardy seems destined to stay at the King Power Stadium, his teammate Riyadh Mahrez could still be tempted away with a big money move. The Algerian winger was one of the Premier Leagues’ stand out players and has been courted by Barcelona for some time. While he won’t come cheap, his scoring and playmaking ability and young age make him an exciting alternative to Jamie Vardy, albeit a deeper attacker than and out-and-out centre forward.
The alternative to Vardy might well come in the shape of Sporting Lisbon’s Islam Slimani. The 27-year-old Algerian has an impressive record in the Portuguese league, averaging a goal every two games. He has been valued at around £23 million, making him a comparable option to Vardy.
The other name that has been flirted with the Gunners is France star Antoine Griezmann. The Atletico forward has been impressive since moving from Real Sociedad last year and would be an amazing signing for the Gunners. But considering he’s played just one season under Diego Simeone, it’s unlikely he can be budged from the Spaniards.
It remains to be seen who Arsenal secure over the summer, but should Vardy and Mkhitaryan turn down the chance to play at the Emirates, there are some exciting alternatives.
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