Transfer deadline day is approaching fast and for Arsenal and Manchester United, it’s a race against the clock to sign Bayern Munich star Mathys Tel.
The two Premier League giants are seemingly going head-to-head for the 19-year-old, who appears set to leave Bavaria in the transfer window.
Arsenal are in desperate need of more forward options and have pushed hard to land some big names – most notably having a £60million bid for Ollie Watkins rejected by Aston Villa.
With that deal seemingly cut off, Arsenal have made contact to sign Mathys Tel from Bayern Munich in a last-minute move.
The Gunners aren’t alone though as Manchester United are also in the race to land the 19-year-old before the window slams shut.
Fortunately for Mikel Arteta though, he holds a few aces in his hand that could help swing a move in his favour.
- READ MORE: Everything you need to know about January 2025 transfer deadline day including closing date and time
Arsenal can offer ideal shirt number to Mathys Tel over Man United
A minor factor that could play a major role surrounds the shirt number available to Mathys Tel when he makes the switch.
The forward has revealed his love for both Thierry Henry and Cristiano Ronaldo when growing up, which could see him emulate either at their old clubs.
Unfortunately for Tel and Man United, the famous number seven shirt number is currently occupied by Mason Mount.
However, if he wanted to replicate Henry, then he is more than welcome to as the number 14 shirt is available.
It was last worn by Eddie Nketiah, who has since left the club to join Crystal Palace, making it available once again.
Champions League football opportunity
Something that Arsenal can offer this season that Man United can’t is Champions League football, with a clear opportunity to play at the highest level.
The Gunners are through to the round of 16 in the competition, having finished in the top-eight of the league phase.
While there’s a long road ahead to winning the Champions League, a huge run could help the side lift the trophy.
It’s a chance that anyone would be persuaded by, not least if the alternative is playing in the Europa League.
A chance to win trophies at Arsenal
While it’s far from easy, Arsenal are still in with a shout of winning the Carabao Cup as they enter the second leg of the competition in the coming week.
A 2-0 deficit away at Newcastle will be tough to overturn but still within the realms of possibility, opening up a chance of a final and some silverware.
Beyond that is an outside shot of winning the Premier League, while the Champions League is still up for grabs.
Manchester United have some hope of doing similar, but their patchy form may bring up questions about their ability to do so.
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