With Bukayo Saka and Nicolas Pepe fighting for that right-hand side, and Emile Smith-Rowe and Martin Odegaard competing for the number 10 role, it would be a great idea to look for a world-class left-winger. As we continue moving closer to the Summer transfer window, there is some sense of clarity as to who the club should target to strengthen the side. In these last few years, we have always missed the final piece to have a title-winning attack. First, it was the CF position that we did not address and it ended costing us the title in 2015. Then, we did not have a proper creator once Mesut Ozil’s saga began. Now, we are missing a game-changer on the left-hand side. There are many options in the market, but only a few that can really take us to a different level. Let’s take a look as to who they are:
1. Jack Grealish (Aston Villa, 25): Undoubtedly, one of the best players in the Premier League this season, Grealish would bring everything we need and more. At 25, he has not even reached his prime years yet and he is putting in phenomenal performances every week. Creativity, ball-carrying ability, endurance, and leadership are a few of the things he would bring to this Arsenal side. This season, he has contributed to 46% of Aston Villa’s goals, netting 6 and assisting 12 in just 22 appearances. We will have to see how he returns from the injury, but so far, it is more than evident that he is definitely worth his price tag, which is around £45m as per transfermarkt, but will definitely be more considering he is Villa’s prized asset.
Jack Grealish in the Premier League this season – Via Understat
2. Pedro Neto (Wolves, 20): One of the best young talents in the league, the Portuguese winger would be a brilliant addition to the team. A childhood Arsenal fan, Neto has been the brightest spark in a very shaky Wolverhampton side. While he is still a young player, he has been a standout for around two seasons already. Left-footed but with a brilliant weak-foot, he would fit right in on that left-wing. Pace, decision-making, and work-rate are his strengths. 5 goals and 4 assists so far this season in 28 appearances, his numbers are not as impressive as his performances but that will only improve in a better side. He has a valuation of around £24m as per transfermarkt.
Pedro Neto in the Premier League this season – Via Understat
3. Harvey Barnes (Leicester City, 23): A sensational season so far for the Englishman, Barnes has scored 9 goals and assisted 4 this Premier League season for a very strong Leicester City team. Being basically unstoppable on the left side, he creates havoc with his dribbling and directness. The main difference between last season and the current one is his finishing. It has vastly improved, although it still has a margin of improvement. Harvey is most definitely ready to get an England call-up once he returns from injury. Arsenal should be watching closely because he is starting to become a star. Barnes has a valuation of £25.2m as per transfermarkt, but will definitely go for a lot more.
Harvey Barnes in the Premier League this season – Via Understat
In next week’s column, an overview on the recent news that Edu will be looking at the Brazilian and Argentinian markets…
Who is your pick for the left wing spot? Please let me known in the comments below.