Once again, Arsenal are going to need a big summer transfer window, and along with a left winger, a new deep-lying playmaker is also needed.
Andrea Berta wants to sign a new attacker this summer, and it’s clear that a new left winger must be top of the Italian director’s list.
🤔 Which midfield target should Andrea Berta prioritise at Arsenal this summer?
However, it is also becoming quickly apparent that the Gunners need more creativity in the middle of the park, with both Declan Rice and Martin Zubimendi struggling.
At times this season, Arsenal have struggled to progress the ball, and when teams have pressed them, they’ve had few answers.
Therefore, it is time for Berta to start looking for a midfielder who is going to be very comfortable receiving the ball deep and looking to play forward.
Arsenal need to sign a deep-lying playmaker this summer
One of Berta’s top targets this summer must be a deep-lying playmaker as Arsenal look to add more creativity to the team.
Twice against Manchester City now, Arsenal have struggled to deal with their press, with their midfielders unable to come and collect the ball.
Zubimendi started the season so well, and for some reason, the Spaniard has really dropped off, with fatigue and confidence playing a part.
The Spanish midfielder should be the player who is collecting the ball and looking to progress it to the Gunners’ more attacking players.
TRUE or FALSE: Arsenal MUST upgrade on Martin Zubimendi this summer?
However, over recent months, he has shied away from that role, and in the summer, Arsenal needs to sign a player who can help manage that burden.
Rice and Zubimendi have already been run into the ground by Mikel Arteta this season, although the Arsenal boss has not had much choice.
Currently, Christian Norgaard and Myles Lewis-Skelly are the only replacements, but neither are particularly top midfielders.
Arsenal should be targeting Adam Wharton or Elliot Anderson
Two really top midfielders Arsenal should be targeting are Crystal Palace’s Adam Wharton or Elliot Anderson from Nottingham Forest.
Wharton is one of the best passers of the ball, ranking in the top 90 per cent for assists and big chances created against other Premier League midfielders.
The 22-year-old would be expensive, but partnering him alongside Rice would sort the Gunners’ midfield for the next four or five years.
Meanwhile, Anderson is another top player and has already formed a great partnership with Rice for England.
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