Opinion

Winners and losers from Phil Foden to Arsenal transfer rumours with Odegaard and Saka problem

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As Arsenal have been on the hunt for a few goalscoring options in the summer transfer market, plenty of names have been flying around.

The latest of which is Manchester City star Phil Foden, as former Premier League striker Tony Cascarino claimed that the Gunners should make a move in an interview on TalkSPORT.

The England international has struggled over the past season, and with the arrival of Rayan Cherki, the future of the star could be in doubt.

It could open the way for Arsenal to make their move in the market for a player who could move the needle for them.

That will have an impact on the rest of the team, though, so here’s a look at some winners and losers from a potential move for Foden.

England v Switzerland: Quarter-Final - UEFA EURO 2024
Photo by Clive Mason/Getty Images

Winners from Phil Foden to Arsenal transfer

Kai Havertz

With Arsenal yet to sign another striker, the clear beneficiary of a potential move for Foden would be Kai Havertz.

The German international has been largely fine as a centre-forward, though he hasn’t always had the clinical edge the side has needed.

With the need for some creativity behind him, someone like Foden could unlock Havertz with the sheer increase in volume of chances.

Declan Rice

Declan Rice’s impressive campaign for Arsenal has taken him to new heights, having landed the best goal return of his career so far.

The England international could be boosted by the arrival of his fellow Three Lions star, who has featured alongside him regularly.

A place on the left flank could help make Rice even better, while there is already chemistry developed between the two.

Phil Foden and Declan Rice celebrate for England
Photo by Michael Regan – The FA/The FA via Getty Images

Martin Zubimendi

Arsenal are set to sign Martin Zubimendi from Real Sociedad this summer in a deal worth £51 million, which will bolster their midfield ranks.

His arrival could already see another transformation in the central areas, as the addition of Foden could help him.

Zubimendi’s skill surrounds the ability to direct the tempo of the match, while Foden possesses more of the attacking talent.

With an arrival for both, there could be some serious strength to the Arsenal midfield.

Losers from Phil Foden to Arsenal transfer

Martin Odegaard

Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard didn’t have the easiest 2024/25 campaign, to say the very least.

Injuries plagued the first half of his season, before a poor run of form followed in which he didn’t look his best.

The arrival of Foden may only hamper his efforts to reach the top once again, as it adds quality and competition in his position.

The pair are quite different in how they play, however, which could mean a different approach from Arteta.

Martin Odegaard in action during Arsenal FC v Newcastle United FC in the Premier League clash.
Photo by Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC via Getty Images

Bukayo Saka

Bukayo Saka hasn’t always received the plaudits he deserves in the England setup, not least because of the presence of Foden.

The Arsenal star has often been forced into playing different positions because of the Man City ace, with his own performances suffering as a result.

While the addition of some extra quality may actually help Saka, his struggles to get into the same team as Foden could hint at future problems.

Gabriel Martinelli

Gabriel Martinelli could face extra competition for places this summer, as the left-winger has an uncertain future ahead.

With a dwindling contract and interest elsewhere at Arsenal for another forward, the arrival of Foden may only reduce minutes for the Brazilian.

While it creates competition, which could breed better performances, it’s unclear if the lack of minutes could hamper Martinelli.