According to a report from The Sun, Arsenal have joined Manchester United in their pursuit to sign Russian striker Aleksandr Sobolev. The 22-year-old Krylia Sovetov hitman has had a stunning start to the season scoring 10 goals in 12 games.
The Gunners reportedly sent out scouts to watch him in action against Sochi where he impressed by scoring a brace. Sobolev confirmed that he heard that Arsenal’s representatives were in the stands in the post-match interview.
He told Sport Express: “I was told after the Sochi game that Arsenal scouts came to see me. In my opinion, this is true. I am not 100 per cent sure, but this is what I was told. Manchester United’s interest? I can’t even imagine how this could be.”
Sobolev’s quality has been evident since the season’s start but it is hard to believe Arsenal’s interest in him. The Russian is playing his first top-flight season and has only just received his first national call up.
Alexandre Lacazette and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang are guaranteed first-teamers due to their experience at the top level. Young Gabriel Martinelli has hugely impressed in recent games while Eddie Nketiah has also had a positive start to life on loan at Leeds United.
However, 10 goals in 12 games is a fantastic record and at 22 years of age, Sobolev looks to be the real deal. Unai Emery’s side are right to keep an eye on his development but an immediate move for him is unnecessary.
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