Gonzalo Higuain. When that name is mentioned most Arsenal fans think back to the summer of 2013.
During that period the Gunners were heavily linked with signing the Argentinian striker from Real Madrid – some outlets even reported a deal was as good as done. Just as we all started to add him to our teams on FIFA, Higuain signed for Napoli because Arsenal wouldn’t pay up. It hurt. Arsene Wenger had once again penny pinched and missed out on a quality player, frustrating. Some of that frustration was relieved when the Gunners then went on to sign Mesut Ozil later in the same window, but the Higuain saga will always be memorable.
That saga may very well be resuscitated this summer as the strikers future looks uncertain in Serie A. Many news outlets are linking the Gunners with a bid for Higuain this summer – I hope we go for it.
Why do we need a striker you ask? Well, it’s not a priority, but there’s definitely room for one more at the club – especially if Theo Walcott leaves. I think Danny Welbeck has shown he is still more of an asset from a wide position, which only leaves Olivier Giroud and Chuba Akpom as natural strikers competing for the lone striker role. To win a title, I really think we could do with another world class goal scorer at the club. Higuain is just that, experienced and quality. His goal scoring record at both Napoli and Real Madrid have been consistently impressive and I have no doubt he will succeed in the Premier League.
I’d seriously consider a move for Higuain if Walcott leaves this summer. The Gunners have plenty of options on the wing, even with Walcott out of the equation. But Wenger has a shallow pool of top class options upfront. Giroud has improved dramatically this season, but we need more than one top quality striker.
Napoli are struggling to maintain Champions League status for next season and if they don’t manage it, I’m sure Higuain will want to move on. At 27 I expect him to also want to test himself in the Premier League.
Wenger’s love for South American forwards only adds more fuel to the rumours. The Frenchman has previously suggested that the best strikers originate from this continent. Earlier this week he also praised South American signings Alexis Sanchez and Gabriel Paulista for their quick adjustment to the English game.
Do you think replacing Walcott with Higuain would be a good move? Or am I talking crap? Let me know what and why by commenting below!