Arsenal will rival Manchester United for one of the most coveted strikers in European football currently.
According to SportBild, as cited by The Sun, Arsenal are one of a number of clubs in the mix and to sign Erling Haaland from RB Salzburg, who is expected to leave the Austrian club in a deal worth £85million at the end of the season.
Reports suggest that Manchester United are the most interested in signing the 19-year-old forward, and on the face of it they are much more in need of a top level striker than the Gunners. But Arsenal currently have their star attacking duo, Alexandre Lacazette and Pierre Aubameyang hesitating on extending their contracts.
Under new leadership at the club, Arsenal will not allow such weighty assets to depreciate until their value is nothing at the end of their contracts, seeking to avoid what has happened previously with players like Aaron Ramsey.
Therefore, the Gunners could well cash in on at least one of Lacazette or Aubameyang at the end of the season, where both players would have just 12 months remaining on their contracts.
Haaland, just 19 and with much more long term value, would be a significant investment at around £85million, but relatively low risk considering his age and potential resale value.
It’s clear the youngster has a huge amount of ability, already netting 16 goals in 14 appearances for RB Salzburg, including impressive showing in the Champions League. He’s already been capped (twice) for the Norway senior team and standing at 6ft 4′ tall with a solid frame, Erling appears to have the physical make up of a player that can succeed in the Premier League.
Time will tell whether or not Arsenal are really serious about a move for Haaland, but much will surely depend on the future of Arsenal’s current strikers. If either or both of them do leave though, then I would expect Arsenal to be open to investing big in a young player, like they did with Nicolas Pepe, as the club look to build for the future.