Arsenal have now found out where they stand in the race to sign Malick Fofana, according to recent reports, and the winger has decided to move to Barcelona.
Although the Gunners have been impressive so far this season, their left side remains their biggest weakness. Martinelli’s form remains inconsistent and he remains on the sidelines, while Leandro Trossard is now 30 and not a long-term option. Having solved their striker problem by signing Viktor Gyokeres this summer, Arsenal must do the same on their left side.
That said, given they sit top of the Premier League with an excellent defensive record and a set-piece threat, those in north London will be in no rush to panic buy any potential upgrades.
Their 2-2 draw against Sunderland on Saturday was the first time Arsenal had dropped points in the Premier League since September and they had not lost a match in all competitions since August. Everything finally points to major silverware for Mikel Arteta.
In an ideal world for those at the Emirates, Arsenal will march towards Premier League glory and then find themselves in the perfect opportunity to welcome any further improvement.
Already, the champions-elect have been linked with moves like Javi Guerra in what would see another La Liga talent arrive and he is not the only one on their shortlist.
Recent reports have also shared Arsenal’s interest in Lyon’s Fofana, who is one of the most sought-after wingers in European football. Those same reports even revealed where the Gunners stand in the race to secure his signature.
Fofana’s dream revealed as Arsenal discover transfer stance
According to Sport in Spain, Arsenal are now the team most interested in signing Fofana alongside Chelsea, a frustrating blow for Barcelona. The Belgian star has made no secret of his desire to join the Premier League, with his agent admitting earlier this year that he dreams of a move to Liverpool.
While this may seem like a blow to Arsenal, it would be the Gunners who are front and center in the race to secure his signature and not the Reds. Potentially with the Premier League title in hand, the north Londoners have every chance of influencing Fofana, who is aiming for English football instead of a move to Barcelona.
Fofana’s agent, Bobo Fofana, said last March: “The choice of the heart would be Liverpool. He has the potential to become a regular, and above all, we would like to see him succeed African legends like Mohamed Salah, Sadio Mané and Elhadj Diouf.”
A player described as ‘explosive’ by Como scout Ben Mattinson, Fofana is not a talent Arsenal will want to miss out on, especially if they are rivals Liverpool.
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