Arsenal are reportedly leading the chase for Rafael Leao, with Mikel Arteta looking to strengthen his attacking options.
According to La Repubblica, Arsenal are reportedly leading the chase for Rafael Leao and could make a move for him in the summer. Mikel Arteta might consider the Portuguese attacker to be a quality addition to the attacking unit, which currently lacks depth.
Arsenal ended the January window without any new signings, while trimming their squad to the bare minimum. The Gunners currently have 17 senior players in the team, which Arteta deemed enough for the rest of the season, considering that they are playing only in the Premier League.
The fanbase screamed for a new striker to replace Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, who left for Barcelona. The main concern was replacing the Gabon star’s goals, with Alexandre Lacazette also misfiring this season. The goals have come from wide areas with players like Gabriel Martinelli, Bukayo Saka and Emile Smith Rowe contributing.
With several players leaving in the January window, Arsenal are reportedly planning another summer spending spree to bring in quality reinforcements. With the north Londoners expected to be back in Europe, Arteta will have already planned how he wants the team to look.
One of the areas the manager would like to address is the striker position, with at least two players expected to arrive. Reports have also suggested that Arteta might look for a wide attacker to replace Nicolas Pepe, who could depart in the summer.
Rafael Leao is the name currently linked with a move to Arsenal, with Arteta seemingly impressed by his output for AC Milan this season. The Portuguese attacker has been sensational at the San Siro, helping the team mount a strong Serie A title challenge.
His ten goals in all competitions from the wide left area have been important for Milan, leading to him getting the attention of some top clubs, including Manchester City. His contract at the San Siro lasts till 2024, which gives Milan enough time to sort his future out.
While they want to ensure that Portuguese international stays at the club for a long time, they do not wish to rush into contract talks right away. But if the player is convinced to move away from the club, Milan could command an enormous fee.
Arteta may have a large transfer kitty at his disposal next summer. Although the Spaniard is likely to prioritise moves for strikers and midfielders, he could also move for a goalscoring wide attacker. Leao fits that bill with his age and style of play, and could certainly improve Arsenal’s attack. With the Gunners supposedly at the front of the queue to sign him, it remains to be seen if a move is completed.