Arsenal might dip into the Bundesliga for Fortuna Dusseldorf forward Benito Raman as the player looks certain on leaving the German side in the summer.
Arsenal’s transfer plans are underway already, with several players linked with a switch to the Emirates in the summer. The Sun are throwing in a new name in the mix after reporting on possible interest in Fortuna Dusseldorf forward, Benito Raman. The German side are looking for a sale of the player amid economic tensions.
A forward signing is on Arsenal’s agenda for the summer window, and the club could consider the idea of going for Raman then. Arsenal currently have a formidable forward line comprising of Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Alexandre Lacazette, as well as Danny Welbeck. As for Raman, he might be wanted by the Gunners to replace Welbeck,
Arsenal are yet to decide on offering new terms to Welbeck, whose contract expires at the end of the season, and although there are chances of that happening, the club are keeping their eyes open on potential replacements. Arsenal were looking for a wide forward in the January transfer window with links to Yannick Carrasco and others, although only ended signing Denis Suarez on loan.
Arsenal will have to face competition from the Premier League for Raman as Everton are also considering a move for the player. Everton are also in the market for a forward as a possible replacement for Cenk Tosun who has not performed since signing for the Toffees 18 months ago. Marco Silva is thought to be a keen admirer of Raman and shall consider signing him.
Raman is having a decent season in Germany with Dusseldorf, as the club sits in 10th position on the table. He has made a significant contribution to the side, scoring 10 goals and providing four assists this season. The numbers might not appeal, however considering Dusseldorf have only scored 39 goals, Raman’s contribution is about a third of that, which is excellent.
The German side are in a difficult financial situation currently, which could lead to several players leaving the club in the summer. Raman has been one of the first names on the team sheets this season, and the Belgian could well be the first to leave when the season ends along with other stars in the team.
Dusseldorf are reportedly asking for around £13 million for the forward, which from Arsenal’s point of view seems reasonable. Arsenal have their own financial struggles which has led to the club operating on a limited budget in the last two windows.
However, as things stand, especially after their progression to the semi-final of the Europa League, the club might be able to boost their budget if they qualify for next season’s Champions League.
As for Raman, he is young and at 24 years old seemingly represents the ideal option for Arsenal in their hunt for a back-up striker. His numbers are substantial, although adaptability to the Premier League might take some time. For £13 million in today’s market, he could represent a good buy especially if he ends up performing well during next season.
