Arsenal have been linked with several midfielders in this transfer window, but their solution may come in a bargain opportunity.
Mikel Arteta wants a new midfielder to complement Declan Rice and Martin Odegaad, essentially replacing Thomas Partey.
Amadou Onana has been linked, but if this midfielder is to play at the base of the trio, he will need to be strong at progressing the ball, which is not the Everton star’s key strength.
Youssouf Fofana of Monaco could be this ideal player, and his performance in France’s Euro 2024 victory over Portugal showed why he would be useful for Arteta.
Arsenal target Youssouf Fofana delivers strong cameo display in France win over Portugal
Fofana, who is set to leave Monaco this summer, came on as a substitute for Real Madrid superstar Eduardo Camavinga for extra time, and delivered a strong display.
The 25-year-old was secure on the ball but also offered more urgency to his side with his passing. He progressed the ball with speed and was also careful in possession when needed, misplacing just one of his 16 passes.
Fofana’s ability on the ball showed as he also helped France push forward with two accurate long balls. He was beaten once by Nuno Mendes in an excellent Portugal move, but overall he delivered a good display in a high-pressure situation against some of the world’s best midfielders, and also scored his effort from the spot in the penalty shootout.
Arsenal can land Youssouf Fofana for bargain price this summer
Fofana will be on the move as he can reportedly leave Monaco for around £13m, and he could be the ideal replacement for Partey given his ability on the ball.
The Monaco star is being trusted by Didier Deschamps to step in alongside the likes of Kylian Mbappe and Aurelien Tchouameni, showing the calibre of player he is competing with in the France squad, in a similar manner to what Santi Cazorla did with Spain prior to joining Arsenal.
Cesc Fabregas has praised Fofana in the past, and Arteta could be the best manager to harness his blend of physicality and technical quality.
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