Arsenal are reportedly preparing a £20million offer to lure Watford striker Odion Ighalo to the Emirates Stadium this Summer.
Arsene Wenger has suffered consistent pressure in recent years to sign a natural goalscorer, and with Olivier Giroud currently misfiring, the rumour mill is back in progress.
The Gunners have been linked with a move for the 26-year-old on multiple occasions following his success in the Premier League this season, and The Sun believe a bid is imminent. John Cross from The Mirror also suggests that a £20million package is being prepared.
An impressive 14 of his 15 goals have come in the top flight so far, which has attracted attention from some of Europe’s elite sides, including Atletico Madrid.
It is believed that £20million would be enough to grab the signature of the Nigerian international, and Hornets manager Quique Flores has admitted he could have no control over keeping hold of his star man.
Speculation about Ighalo is normal. He is one of the best strikers in the league.
It’s good, I love this speculation for all the players. When other teams want Watford players it means we’re doing something right.
It also improves the value of players. I cannot talk about what will happen to Ighalo in the future but it will be positive.
The chances of Wenger bringing in a striker at the end of the season doesn’t exactly top his list of priorities, with three midfielders set to be shown the exit door.
Replacing the likes of Mikel Arteta, Thomas Rosicky and Mathieu Flamini will be costly, in both transfer fees and wages, so any sign of a move for a forward will come late in the window.
But the target of Ighalo looks to be a strong one, he fits the bill at Arsenal but there is still no evidence to show he can perform at that level with a bigger club.
He has impressed for Watford over the last two seasons as their top goalscorer, but would Arsenal fans be happy with this signing?
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