Arsenal look likely to invest in an attacker in the summer transfer window, and have been linked with several players.
Ivan Toney and Victor Osimhen are seemingly two key targets, whilst Pedro Neto and Michael Olise have been linked as wide options.
Mikel Arteta needs to add pace to his squad, and his current attackers have been criticised for their poor finishing ability this season.
With financial fair play issues preventing any big move in the January window, attention is being paid to the upcoming summer window, where Arsenal look set to add at least one key forward to the attacking roster.
They have now scouted a player who could solve two of their main issues in one deal, but will face competition from a key rival.
Arsenal scout RB Leipzig star Lois Openda
A report from HITC Football has revealed that Arsenal scouts were in attendance at a crucial match in the Bundesliga title race at the weekend.
Bayer Leverkusen secured a dramatic 3-2 victory against RB Leipzig, with Granit Xhaka’s new side still top of the table, and Arteta’s scouting team were there to check up on a number of players from both sides.
Whilst Jeremie Frimpong of Leverkusen has been linked, they were also keeping an eye on Leipzig striker Lois Openda.
The 23-year-old joined this summer from RC Lens for just over £36m, and has scored 12 and assisted four goals in 18 Bundesliga matches.
Tottenham Hotspur were previously linked with Openda as a replacement for Harry Kane, but he is now on Arsenal’s radar as a potential striker option.
Lois Openda could solve Arsenal attacking issues
The Belgian International would add both blistering speed, and clinical finishing to Arsenal’s front-line, which would solve two key issues facing Arteta.
His former coach Philippe Clement, who is now managing Rangers, previously highlighted how dangerous Openda can be in attack.
“Everyone saw his qualities,” he stated of his time as a teenager at Club Brugge.
“He’s super-fast but he also has an eye for goal and a will to be decisive. In difficult times, he’s someone who remains combative. That’s a very important quality in life and as a player.”
Openda could cost a significant amount given his progress since what was already a big transfer, but he would be a speedier option than the likes of Leandro Trossard, who has been criticised for some of his performances when replacing Gabriel Martinelli on the wing, and would offer more goal threat than any of Arsenal’s current strikers.
He could both replace Gabriel Jesus through the middle, or even play alongside him in attack, offering a speedy outlet to find space in behind, as well as deadly finishing when presented with chances inside the box, and should a move happen, it could be a deal which sets Arsenal up nicely for next season.
Receive a digest of our best Arsenal content each week direct to your mailbox
