Arsenal are reportedly keeping tabs on Patrik Schick over a summer move, although Bayer Leverkusen are set to demand a huge fee for their star man.
According to Jeunes Footeux, Patrik Schick has emerged as a target for Arsenal, as Mikel Arteta eyes a forward or two in the upcoming transfer window. Bayer Leverkusen could demand nearly €60 million for their star striker if interested parties approach.
Arsenal are set to embark on a massive summer window as Mikel Arteta remains eager to address plenty of pending issues with his squad. Strengthening the centre-forward position remains at the forefront of the manager’s plans, with the Gunners set to have a shortage of players in the final third.
Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang has already left the club, while Alexandre Lacazette and Eddie Nketiah, have contracts expiring in the summer. Both the strikers are expected to go on a free transfer, although there is still some talk about Arsenal looking to extend the Frenchman’s contract.
Irrespective of the Frenchman’s future, Arteta remains keen on signing a top-level striker in the summer transfer window. Names such as Victor Osimhen of Napoli have already been linked alongside Real Sociedad’s Alexander Isak and Everton’s Dominic Calvert-Lewin.
With Arsenal expected to have a huge transfer kitty for the summer transfer window, much of it might go into recruiting a new striker or two, depending on what Arteta wants. And Bayer Leverkusen striker Patrik Schick has become the latest player to see his name taken in connection with the Gunners.
The Czech Republic international announced himself after a stunning UEFA Euro 2020 campaign last year, scoring five goals in the tournament. He has taken the international form into the club season, with his 20 Bundesliga goals a glowing proof of that.
Naturally, his value has skyrocketed during this period, and Leverkusen might demand a sizeable fee if suitors come knocking on their door. Manchester City were prepared to pay €50 million if reports are true, although the German club might want around €60 million for their star striker.
Arsenal might be in a position to pay such a fee, although the Gunners could look to negotiate a lower price. Schick offers a variety of qualities the north London side might like. He is good in the air and is a fine finisher as well. The physical aspect of his game remains questionable, although it could be worked on over time.
At 26, Schick offers a long-term option, although Arsenal’s other targets are much younger. It remains to be seen if the Gunners take their interest further and talk to Leverkusen over a potential deal for the Czech striker in the summer window. The Bundesliga forward will certainly fit Arteta’s system, although the north Londoners could also explore other possibilities.