Arsenal have reportedly opened talks in an attempt to land Eupen striker Henry Onyekuru, who is being tailed by a host of Premier League clubs
ESPN are claiming that, as per their sources, Arsenal have opened talks with Belgian club Eupen in an attempt to land their highly-rated striker Henry Onyekuru. The forward is heavily sought-after in Europe, with a host of Premier League clubs interested in the player as well.
Henry Onyekuru is a 19-year-old Nigerian forward who has the ability to play all across the front three – a trait that saw him attract the likes of Liverpool and Chelsea, both of whom are looking to add players with such versatility in their skill-set.
While the player joined Eupen back in the summer of 2015, it is the 2016-17 campaign where the 19-year-old has truly emerged as one of the most enticing talents in Europe. 24 goals and 9 assists in 41 appearances in all competitions combined, Onyekuru has made the top clubs sit up and take note of the explosive talent he possesses.
The player was linked with Arsenal back in March and the latest reports have revealed that the Gunners have opened talks with the club in order to explore the possibility of signing the 19-year-old. Arsenal, in all fairness, will be due a major overhaul in the summer, with the club failing to secure Champions League football next campaign.
Arsenal in talks to sign Nigerian striker Henry Onyekuru from Belgian side KAS Eupen. Release clause £6.8m. Top scorer in Belgium
— Kaveh Solhekol (@SkyKaveh) May 22, 2017
Henry Onyekuru is indeed a good talent. 24 goals in 41 appearances this season is not bad at all for a 19yo. pic.twitter.com/QEhCJxDJk8
— GP (@DeadlyXhaka) May 22, 2017
The aforementioned failure means that some of their mega stars are likely to leave. And with Alexis Sanchez heavily rumoured to be heading towards a summer exit, Wenger could be looking for a player with a similar skill-set to replace the forward.
And while Onyekuru is nowhere near Alexis Sanchez’s level right now, the player could be a potent addition to the team. The player’s versatility combined with his prolific nature and ability to play with either foot will be a welcome addition at Emirates.
Also, at 19, the player will represent a potential long-term addition to the squad – one that can stamp his authority in the first-team setup for at least the next decade. Add to that the fact that the player has a staggeringly low £6.8 million buyout clause, and the transfer seems worth the risk.
The club is likely to have to withstand heavy competition but could be able to land the player by moving fast – something they are rumoured to be doing as at the present moment. Onyekuru’s agents, Mercato Sports, have also confirmed heavy interest in the player.
And their stance of choosing what is right for the player likely hints at a potential move in the offing. If Arsenal play their cards right, they might be able to land the player – a signing which could turn out to be a real steal considering the hype Onyekuru’s talent is generating in Europe.