Atletico Madrid’s star in the Champions League final may find himself plying his trade at Arsenal next season.
Yannick Carrasco, 22, announced himself on the international stage in spectacular fashion as he scored the equaliser for Atletico Madrid which ensured that the game went into extra-time and then eventually penalties. Unfortunately for Atletico, the goal wasn’t enough to help his side lift their first ever Champions League title as Real Madrid won the game on penalties. His goal could prove to be his last in an Atletico shirt as Arsenal have shown interest in signing the Belgian midfielder.
A report in the Daily Star has claimed that Arsenal have made inquiries for the Belgian young gun. Atletico Madrid were willing to listen to offers from the London-based club as long their offer ranges anywhere between £15m to £19m. According to the twitter feed of Italian transfer pundit Emanuele Giulianelli: “Arsenal asked Atletico Madrid to be allowed to make a bid for Carrasco. Atletico available to listen. About €20/25mln.” “If Carrasco leave Atletico Madrid, he will be replaced by Candreva from Lazio.”
Arsenal fans would remember Carrasco vividly as his goal against them in the 2014-15 Champions League season ensured that Monaco won the Round of 16 tie against the Londoners. Monaco managed to beat Arsenal 3-1 at the Emirates and eventually got through on goal difference. The Belgian winger made 43 appearances for Atletico, in which he managed to find the net 5 times and assisted 4 times.
Carrasco’s strengths will benefit Arsenal the most
A typical winger who likes to cut inside and dribble with the ball, the statistics don’t often support the talent and the potential of Carrasco. Before moving to Atletico Madrid in the summer of 2015, Carrasco was chased by many scouts in Europe and now it’s only fitting that a promising talent delivered on the biggest stage and showed his worth.
Arsenal will particularly benefit from the agility, guile and crossing ability of Carrasco as they themselves have been let down by potential wingers like Walcott and Oxlade-Chamberlain, who failed to deliver on a consistent basis for the club when they needed a moment of genius or a purple patch that could see them lift a trophy or two. Considering the asking price, the Gunners would surely consider pondering over buying Carrasco in the summer.
