Paul Onuachu continues to attract interest from top European clubs, with Arsenal the latest Premier League side keen on the Genk striker.
According to Spanish outlet Mundo Deportivo, Arsenal have joined several other clubs in showing an interest in Genk’s in-demand striker Paul Onuachu. A host of other Premier League and Spanish outfits are also chasing the Nigerian striker, who could be available for transfer in the January window.
Onuachu finished the 2020/21 season with prolific numbers, scoring 35 goals in all competitions. The 27-year-old has started the new campaign brightly, with 11 goals in 16 games across all competitions, and his numbers are certainly making teams across England and Europe take notice.
At 27, Onuachu has plenty to offer, as the striker is about to enter his prime playing days. At 6ft 7in, he is a towering presence in the box, a quality many top clubs currently lack in their squad. His aerial presence is one aspect of his game, but his overall contributions, in holding up the ball apart from other traits make him a complete striker.
West Ham United have shown an interest in the Nigerian striker to bring in a viable cover as well as competition for Michail Antonio. The Hammers also need a long-term option for David Moyes, with loads of games to be played this season, as West Ham are not specifically equipped to play twice or thrice a week, particularly in Europe.
Meanwhile, Tottenham have also shown an interest in properly covering for Harry Kane. Spurs may have signed several players during the summer window, but a striker was not one of them. They have eyes on other options on their list of targets, including Fiorentina’s Dusan Vlahovic, although at €20 million, Onuachu is a bargain option.
If the latest reports are accurate, Arsenal have also joined the chase for the lanky frontman and could make a move depending on their status in the January transfer window. Mikel Arteta might be interested in the many qualities that Onuachu possesses, something his own forwards lack.
Arsenal might not have an immediate requirement for a striker, although it might become a pressing need with at least two forwards set to leave the club next summer. Alexandre Lacazette and Eddie Nketiah are likely to depart the club on free transfers when their contracts expire.
The Gunners are expected to spend big on a striker after strengthening the defensive and midfield areas in the summer. They are linked with several forwards, including Sevilla hitman Youssef El-Nesyri. From England, Ollie Watkins and Dominic Calvert-Lewin remain linked.
Ideally, Arsenal would like to make the striker signing next summer, although they might accelerate their plans for January if a player such as Onuachu becomes available. However, they may have to ensure either Lacazette or Nketiah depart in the January window while the competition from West Ham and Tottenham will be one to keep an eye on as well.
