Arsenal can live without the signing of Ajax’s Mohammed Kudus even if it means he heads to their Premier League rivals Chelsea.
That’s on the back of a report from the Independent suggesting Chelsea are now leading the race for Kudus.
22-year-old Mohammed Kudus has been heavily linked with both London clubs for a deal of around £40m.
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And whilst Kudus is a huge talent, just look at his World Cup performances, Arsenal shouldn’t panic if they are beaten to the deal.
Arsenal have had an incredibly strong summer transfer window so far and will undoubtedly want to keep their momentum.
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But that shouldn’t come at the cost of engaging in a bidding war with Chelsea, especially when the player doesn’t seem central to plans.
Whilst Kudus is very versatile across forward positions you would envisage him seeking an attacking midfield role.
That perhaps is the position now filled by Kai Havertz’ on the left of Arsenal’s midfield, one previously assigned to Granit Xhaka.
But with Emile Smith Rowe returning from injury, and Fabio Vieira almost entirely forgotten, Kudus might block the path for such talents.
There’s no doubt that Kudus is an excellent player, and logic dictates that clubs should pursue those when they can, however, it shouldn’t be at the expense of existing talent.
Arsenal don’t need to sign Kudus this summer, even if it means he heads to Chelsea
Just one year ago Arsenal shelled out £34.2m on FC Porto midfielder Fabio Vieira.
Vieira, who was always going to be popular given his namesake, arrived with a ton of excitement and potential.
Although he had a quiet first season, one that was disappointing, he still has a real point to prove in an Arsenal shirt.
And whilst Fabio Vieira’s development is in mind, so too is the future of Emile Smith Rowe.
Mikel Arteta has been full of praise for Smith Rowe over the last 24 hours given his attitude and approach this summer.
Having had groin surgery last year, the Hale End graduate is now raring to go after his success with England’s under-21s.
In terms of his positions, Smith Rowe has a very similar profile to Kudus and the two would likely compete for a spot.
With all considered, and Chelsea leading the race, it may be best if this is a transfer Arsenal concede.