Arsenal are ready to challenge arch-rivals Tottenham Hotspur in the pursuit of Marseille’s midfield ace, Morgan Sanson.
According to Le10 Sport, as relayed by the Express, Arsenal are in talks with Marseille star Morgan Sanson over a potential move this summer. The midfielder has been identified as the latest target for Mikel Arteta, who is keen on reinforcing his midfield unit.
Sanson has been linked with a move to a few other Premier League clubs, including Tottenham Hotspur and West Ham United. Arsenal joining the race, therefore, means we might get to witness a transfer battle between the three London clubs as they vie for the signature of Sanson this summer.
It seems all of these clubs are looking to take advantage of Marseille’s financial situation that could force them to offload a few of their star players. They have already released Gregory Sertic and Sanson could well be the next midfielder to leave the Velodrome, with Arsenal having already made initial contact with the player’s representatives.
The Gunners going in for the transfer of Sanson comes as no surprise, given the fact their young midfield sensation, Matteo Guendouzi, has been linked with a move away from Emirates. The Frenchman has fallen out of favour with Mikel Arteta and is expected to leave, with Barcelona and Real Madrid seemingly interested.
Lucas Torreira is another player linked with a move away from north London, which is combined with Dani Ceballos’ return to Real Madrid. It leaves Arteta with Granit Xhaka as the only viable option in the middle of the park.
The Swiss international has done remarkably well since the turn of the year. However, he still needs a reliable partner, preferably someone who can provide the creative essence to the team, especially with Mesut Ozil struggling. And that is where Sanson seems like an ideal option.
Having said that, Tottenham, too, make a strong case for the French midfielder as they look to find an upgrade to Moussa Sissoko this summer. The ex-Newcastle star has turned into a liability due to his lack of technical qualities while his compatriot Tanguy Ndombele has also failed to live up to his hefty price-tag.
Other midfield options like Dele Alli, Oliver Skipp and Harry Winks have all struggled with either injury, lack of form or inconsistency. Sanson, in that regard, should be a cost-effective option Jose Mourinho’s bid to reinforce his midfield unit. But, with Arsenal also interested, it will be interesting to see how this transfer saga pans out over the coming weeks.