Arsenal are pushing forward with their interest in a winger this summer, looking to find the player who will make all the difference when it comes to scoring goals.
The Gunners have already sealed several deals, as Andrea Berta has been particularly busy in the transfer market so far.
He won’t stop there, though, as Arsenal are closing in on a deal to sign Viktor Gyokeres, which could solve the centre-forward position.
Beyond that, there is an interest in strengthening the left wing, with several names appearing as an option.
While Arsenal progress in talks to sign Noni Madueke from Chelsea, who can play on either flank, there are other names on the shortlist too.
That includes Arsenal reportedly showing interest in Rafael Leao as a surprise option from AC Milan this summer.
Rafael Leao’s transfer price has been reduced by AC Milan in an Arsenal transfer boost
Arsenal have been linked with Rafael Leao for some time, as the AC Milan star has shown his quality over the years.
The past season has been particularly tough for the Portuguese international, however, coinciding with a dip in form for his club as well.
As Leao has three years remaining on his contract, AC Milan are still in a relatively strong position, but the lack of Champions League football, or any European football for that matter, has created the need for a rebuild.
| Appearances | Goals | Assists |
|---|---|---|
| 50 | 12 | 13 |
That could see the winger, who has been likened to Thierry Henry in the past, leave this summer in a cut-price transfer.
Leao has a release clause worth €150 million (£129.3 million) in his AC Milan contract; however, Sport reports that they are willing to let him leave for just €70 million (£60.3 million) this summer in a huge discount on his original transfer price.
That could open the way for Arsenal to make their move, given their historic interest in the winger and their need to improve in that area.
It may represent something of a risk still, with a huge decision to be made by Andrea Berta soon.
Rafael Leao and Noni Madueke provide two different opportunities for Arsenal
Arsenal have something of a split path ahead of them, with a decision to be made on which winger will be right for them.
While Leao and Madueke aren’t the only two players being assessed for the role, they are prime examples of the debate that will be had internally.
In Madueke, Arsenal could sign a player who is capable of raising the floor of the team, helping their base level reach new heights.
The England international provides plenty of quality to cover both flanks, offering greater strength in depth to the team.
Over the course of a full season, factoring in the number of games and potential injuries, Madueke is the type of signing every team at the top needs.
However, Arsenal may feel they’re at a moment where they need someone to create something special for them.
That’s where Leao could come in, offering that something different to the senior side in that front line.
The concern may come from his base level, as there is plenty of risk involved in the transfer fee and potential wages.
However, he could be the type of player who simply raises the ceiling for Arsenal and takes them to that next level.
That’s the decision the Arsenal hierarchy have to take; do they want to take a risk that could bring them to the next level, or do they want to go with a safety approach?
Berta must act soon, with a decision to be made on that very conundrum.
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