£60m Arsenal summer transfer target now outclasses Bukayo Saka in one key area

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One Arsenal transfer target has now emerged as being superior to Bukayo Saka when it comes to one key factor of his game.

Bukayo Saka is a key player for Arsenal.

The 22-year-old winger is one of the best players in his position in the Premier League. The numbers back this up. So far this season, the Hale End academy graduate has contributed 16 goals and 13 assists in 37 appearances, across all competitions.

There are so many impressive elements to his game. He can beat his man, hold off opposition players with his deceptive strength, create opportunities for his teammates, and he is a lethal finisher.

Mikel Arteta is hugely reliant upon Saka, as he is included in the starting XI week in, week out. 

As such, the Spanish coach will currently be sweating on the attacker’s fitness ahead of this weekend’s crucial Premier League clash with Manchester City. A “late call” will be made on Saka before kick-off on Sunday, as he struggled with an injury throughout the international break.

Arsenal must address Bukayo Saka issue

If Saka is sidelined for this outing at the Etihad Stadium, then that would highlight one of the fundamental flaws in Arteta’s squad. Arsenal do not currently have a natural back-up for Saka.

Reiss Nelson has often replaced him from the bench this season, but Arteta clearly lacks faith in the 24-year-old, as he has not yet handed him a single Premier League start in the current campaign. What’s more, as a right-footer, Nelson cannot accurately replicate Saka’s tactical function in the team, as the 32-cap England international tends to cut inside from the right flank onto his stronger left foot, which creates space for Ben White to provide an overlapping run from right-back.

Sourcing adequate cover and competition for Saka is clearly a priority for Arsenal in the upcoming summer transfer window. Arteta is a keen admirer of Wolves winger Pedro Neto.

How Pedro Neto outshines Bukayo Saka

The Portuguese ace certainly has plenty of quality. The 24-year-old is a left-footer, can operate on either flank, and possesses plenty of flair. He is also a true creative force, as he has chipped in with 9 assists in 19 Premier League outings this season. 

Neto is also absolutely rapid. He is even faster than Saka. As reported by Squawka, he has registered a higher top speed than Saka in the Premier League this season, clocking in at 36.86 kph – equivalent to 22.9 mph.

Wolves have put a £60 million price tag on Neto. He would certainly be an exciting addition to the Arsenal squad. However, Arteta has been warned off making a move for Neto due to his recurrent injury issues.