Arsenal are set to turn their attention towards versatile PSG midfielder Christopher Nkunku with a £17.2 million summer bid in the works.
Arsenal have a lot to plan for the upcoming summer window regarding some departures and possible new arrivals at the club. One of the players expected to come in, according to London Evening Standard could be PSG’s Christopher Nkunku, with the Gunners set to re-ignite their interest in the versatile star and make a summer move for him.
Nkunku’s name has been rung quite a few times since Unai Emery took over the reins at Arsenal. The PSG star was heavily linked with a January move to the Emirates, although things did not work in Arsenal’s favour at the time because PSG were willing to let go of him only on a permanent move, while the Gunners could only afford a loan deal.
The North Londoners instead hastily signed Denis Suarez on-loan from Barcelona, and his short spell has not gone to plan. The Spaniard has seen his season end prematurely after he failed to recover from a troublesome groin that has kept him out of the squad for several weeks. Even when fit, Suarez has been restricted to substitute appearances, playing 95 minutes in total across six games.
With Arsenal seemingly deciding against Suarez’ permanent signing, they have turned their attention back to Nkunku, who could be available for a transfer this summer. The player, who can play in central midfield as well as on the wing, has been reportedly looking for a way out of Paris and has since refused to sign a new deal with the club.
PSG have grown frustrated over the lack of a breakthrough in talks with Nkunku and have decided to sell him when the transfer window re-opens. Les Parisiens value him around £17.2 million and if a club matches that price, business could be conducted. Arsenal might just have the budget for Nkunku, but it is likely the Premier League side would further try to bring the price down.
Arsenal reportedly have a rather modest budget of £45 million for the next window, although Emery has been promised more money if the club qualifies for the Champions League. Additionally, proceedings from any player sales will also allow being reinvested in the squad, with Emery looking to sign a defender, a midfielder and a winger this summer.
Nkunku came through PSG’s youth ranks, and it was Emery who promoted him to the first-team during his time at the Parisian club. By refusing to sign a new deal, Nkuku has made it clear that he wants to move away from the club, having started just 17 games this term.
Nkunku seeks game time and might view a reunion with Emery with optimism. Arsenal, if they could further develop Nkunku, might have a star on their hands and the £17.2 million fee would look like a bargain. Either way, it seems like a good deal for both parties, and it remains to be seen if the move sees the light of the day.
