Arsenal have been due a top class outfield signing since Alexis Sanchez joined the club in 2014, but all of that could be about to change this summer.
That’s because The Telegraph are quoting reports from Spain that suggest the Gunners are ready to move for James Rodriguez after he fell down the pecking order at Real Madrid.
It looks as if Arsene Wenger is already preparing back-up should the deal for Riyad Mahrez fall through following the heavily suggested talks that are due to take place during this month.
Wenger highlighted that money was not a concern in this transfer window, so long as the player ticks the boxes in terms of value, ability and his chances of justifying the fee.
All of those factors fit the bill for Rodriguez, who could well be the attacker that suits the requirements of a side that have been crying out for a forward since Robin van Persie left.
Whilst he’s struggled for game time in Spain, the Colombian international has shown us all what he’s capable of by playing in each of the attacking positions across the midfield.
In an attempt to get the best out of his pace and agility, the 25-year-old is also a big fan of featuring as a fake number 9, something that would interest the Gunners boss.
He’s openly stated that he likes the thought of starting Alexis in the centre forward role so he’s not shy of changing the regular positions of players for certain games.
Thierry Henry came to the club as a right-winger and the 67-year-old managed to develop him over time to become the club’s greatest ever goalscorer… no pressure then Alexis.
But coming back to Rodriguez, he would certainly answer the needs and wants of the Arsenal fans, and could solve the problems in two positions, with Theo Walcott failing in either the wing or striker role.
With many clubs wrapping up their transfer business, Arsenal stand as firm favourites to land his signature should they make a move, but they won’t be the first this summer.
Earlier in the year reports broke that a €71million bid was turned down by Real Madrid, but as the season edges closer this could be his chance to get out while he can.
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