With the search for a new sporting director on the cards, recent reports have linked Arsenal with a move for Dan Ashworth.
The Gunners are looking to land the right person for the job, following on from Edu Gaspar’s shock resignation in early November.
Plenty of different names have been linked with the job, as Dan Ashworth is the latest rumoured to join Arsenal.
Ashworth left Manchester United after just five months in the job at Old Trafford, following on from impressive stints at Brighton and the English FA.
His availability could make him an intriguing option for Arsenal, especially as a replacement to Edu Gaspar.
So with that said, here’s a look at three players Dan Ashworth could sign at the Emirates Stadium if he joined as sporting director.
Alexander Isak
Arsenal have been linked with a transfer for Alexander Isak, with the Swedish striker impressing since moving to the Premier League.
The Newcastle star was actually signed by Ashworth himself for the Magpies, so there is some previous connection there.
The Gunners have struggled with the lack of a centre-forward option who can be clinical while offering a presence at the top end of the pitch.
Isak wouldn’t come cheap, but if Ashworth were to join, there may be a way to convince the striker to make the move to the Emirates Stadium.
As the 25-year-old’s contract dwindles too, there may be even greater hope that a deal could be conducted in the months ahead.
Viktor Gyokeres
Striker Viktor Gyokeres is a transfer target for Arsenal, with the forward leading the scoring charts in the big five European leagues at Sporting CP.
The forward has a past connection with Ashworth, but unlike Isak – who was signed by the director – the fellow Swedish international was actually sold by him.
Gyokeres was at Brighton during the early years of his career but was eventually sold to Coventry City for just £1million.
It seems as though that was a bit of a mistake, though Ashworth could rectify that by signing the forward at Arsenal.
Carlos Baleba
One of Brighton’s next big stars, Carlos Baleba is slowly growing into an impressive and important player for the Seagulls.
Such is his rapid improvement, the midfielder could well be their next big sale once big teams start to take notice.
Ashworth may be able to raid his former club for Baleba before all of the other teams catch wind of his ability and potential.
It’s a deal that could be too good to miss, with relations between Arsenal and Brighton already good from past transfers.
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