Whilst the newspapers are filled with stories on Arsenal tracking down a new defender to cover the multitude of injuries, there’s another spot that needs filling.
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It’s no secret that the Gunners have been crying out for a ’20+ goals a season’ striker since they lost Robin van Persie to title rivals Manchester United, but that could be about to change.
Despite it being the one thing supporters have been left waiting for, Arsene Wenger is equally suffering with frustration due to the availability in this market being so limited.
However, in a recent report from HITC Sport, it looks as if a new target has been identified in the name of Islam Slimani, who happens to be Sporting Lisbon’s first-choice striker.
It might be a name you’ve heard of before though, with the likes of Everton and Newcastle linked with the 28-year-old in recent years, neither of which had the credentials to strike up a deal.
Arsenal on the other hand have exactly that, and with Champions League football on their side it puts them as firm favourites if Slimani is thinking of a move to the Premier League.
It’s no surprise that Wenger is looking into other options in an attacking sense, I feel as if the interest in Alexandre Lacazette died weeks ago after they doubled his valuation over night.
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Will it happen?
Well, the report goes on to state that Slimani has requested a move away from the Portuguese side in search of football at the highest level, something that has alerted the Gunners.
If they were looking to make a landmark signing then the forward isn’t exactly that, but his £30million price tag will please the tight-pocketed Wenger who is reluctant to overspend.
HITC believe that talks are ongoing behind the scenes but it makes sense for Arsenal to keep their options open with seven days to go in the window.
Recent updates from BBC Sport journalist David Ornstein hinted that Wenger was holding back as much cash as possible on a defensive signing to make way for a headliner up front.
Whilst Slimani might not be that household name, he can offer the Gunners something different with 47 goals in 80 league games being a real eye-opener.
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