Arsenal are reportedly set to move for Boca Juniors youngster Cristian Pavon, who has been attracting interest from Barcelona recently.
Spanish publication AS are reporting a potential approach from Arsenal for a Barcelona target. Cristian Pavon has been on the radar of several European clubs for a while now. But, it seems Arsenal are primed to move for the Boca Juniors youngster, with reports that the Gunners are preparing an offer for the Argentine international.
Cristian Pavon was not a known quantity until 2017. After being propelled into the Argentine national setup, Pavon quietly built up a reputation for himself. His pace and ability to link up with teammates shined through on the field, so much so that Lionel Messi requested the Barcelona board to move for the Boca Juniors star.
Pavon may not have had the desired impact at the 2018 FIFA World Cup. But, it could be chalked down to Jorge Sampaoli, who made some questionable selections, not allowing Pavon to start a single group stage game in Russia.
The Boca Juniors star though, is destined for a move to Europe this summer, with a number of clubs vying for his signature. Barcelona have been in the fray for a while. And it seems Arsenal have now not only entered the picture but are aiming to complete a quick deal for Pavon.
At Arsenal, the Unai Emery revolution has already started taking shape. Stephan Lichtsteiner and Sokratis have arrived to strengthen the backline. But, the wings do pose a problem. There has been a lack of out-and-out wingers in the squad after the departure of Alexis Sanchez and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain.
At 22, Pavon would be the right man to bring to London. The Argentine international will provide a fresh injection of pace and youth into the attack, which is necessary for Arsenal.
The report iterates that Emery has ‘fallen in love’ with Pavon’s gameplay and is desperate to add the player to his Arsenal squad.
One stumbling block though, could be the fact that Arsenal will have to pay the reported €50 million buyout clause in order to secure his services. Operating under a budget constraint, shelling out such a major amount of cash could see Emery unable to invest in other areas.
Another point of contention would be the lack of Champions League football. This, along with the presence of Lionel Messi at Barcelona, could hand the Catalans an advantage in Pavon’s pursuit.
Emery though, could sanction a move for the 22-year-old, who the Arsenal fans would hope has a similar impact to his fellow South American star Alexis Sanchez.
