Arsenal have reportedly emerged as a potential destination for Paris Saint-Germain’s wantaway midfielder Georginio Wijnaldum.
According to Sky Sports, Arsenal have become the latest club to be linked with a move for Georginio Wijnaldum. It appears the North London giants are aware of the midfielder’s situation at Paris Saint-Germain, with the player believed to be keen on making a return to the Premier League in the upcoming January transfer window.
Arsenal are ready to welcome Wijnaldum in England next month, although they are set to face stiff competition from the player’s ex-club, Newcastle United. The two clubs are monitoring the progress of the Dutch international, who has struggled at PSG since joining the club in the summer.
Almost halfway into the new season, Wijnaldum has struggled to settle into the French top-flight. He has failed to provide much creativity in the middle of the park and is certainly not an ideal fit for Mauricio Pochettino’s tactical setup. As a result, he has fallen behind the likes of Marco Verratti, Idrissa Gueye, Ander Herrera and even Danilo Pereira in the pecking order, making just seven starts in the league so far.
The lack of game-time has left the Dutchman frustrated with Pochettino, and he is now looking for a way out for PSG. Arsenal are among the clubs ready to offer him the opportunity to potentially get his career back on track.
The Gunners are on the lookout for a new midfielder in January as they look to add competition for the likes of Granit Xhaka, Thomas Partey and Albert Sambi Lokonga. Arsenal may also require depth in the middle of the park, with Mohamed Elneny facing an uncertain future at the club, amid interest from Newcastle United.
Wijnaldum could be the ideal option for Arteta due to multiple reasons. With almost 250 competitive appearances for Liverpool, the Dutchman brings a wealth of experience in English football. Having won the Premier League and Champions League at Anfield, the midfielder can also offer the winning mentality that could be useful for Arsenal.
However, the report suggests PSG are not willing to sanction his departure in the upcoming January transfer window, most likely due to concerns over the team’s depth in midfield. It could serve as a major blow for Arsenal as they continue their search for new midfielders.