Here are the top five signings Arsenal should make this summer, and why.
#1 – Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang Is there a better player currently on the Arsenal roster? I think not. This man has dominated the Gunners’ goal scoring statistics since he arrived in 2018. In 97 Arsenal appearances, the Gabonese striker has scored 61 goals in all competitions. His work rate at both ends of the pitch is superb, plus he brings a spirit and enthusiasm to the changing room that speaks volumes about his character and leadership. Sure he demands a lot of cash, but most world-class players do. The club needs to dig deep into their pockets to keep this man as our captain for more years to come. It has also been reported that the boss will be directly involved in the negotiations with Auba and his agent.
#2 – Bukayo Saka – If Arsenal is serious about building for the future, Saka is one of the men who will be key to that program. Prior to the COVID-19 break, the 18-year-old Englishman established himself not only as a winger, but also as a left back. He has a terrific ability of providing assists with superb crosses into the box, and he is improving defensively as well. Along with Martinelli, Guendouzi, Willock, Nelson, Tierney and Nketiah, Bukayo Saka is Arsenal’s future. His contract needs to be extended now to prevent this top tier talent from moving on to establish himself as a great player elsewhere.
#3 – Thomas Partey – A lot has been said and written already about Arsenal’s interesti in signing the Atletico Madrid midfielder. All reports tell us Partey wants to move to north London, while Mikel Arteta has made no secret about his desire to have him become a Gunner as well. If I’ve said this once, I’ve said this a million times, take a look at his You Tube highlight reel and you’ll have to agree this man is exactly what we need to strengthen our defensive capabilities. That, and his unbelievable ability to pass the ball through defenses is awesome to watch.
#4 – Dayot Upamecano – The RB Leipzig center back has been the source for a lot of conversation over the past few months, and even though it appears unlikely he will transfer out of Germany this summer, one can only hope the Arsenal front office haven’t given up all hope of signing him. The 21-year-old is an awesome talent and has emerged as a real star in the Bundesliga. The Gunners made a serious bid for Upamecano last summer but had the bid rejected. However, if we are serious about winning trophies, splash the cash for this guy.
#5 – Philippe Coutinho – The 27-year-old midfielder’s career has been a bit of a rollercoaster ride. After starring at Liverpool, Barcelona didn’t pan out, however, a loan move to Bayern Munich did show some encouraging progress. Now Coutinho is looking for a new adventure back in the Premier League. I think landing at Arsenal with Arteta as his manager could help to reignite his career. He would be expensive to sign on permanently, however, a loan deal with Barca could work out for everyone. If we could get him on board, and get him back to his old self, his contributions would be a huge boost for our club. Arteta has said “he would be a dream signing.”
Jurrien Timber is reportedly fully fit and ready to return to action, however, due to Arsenal’s current title chase, his minutes are doubtful.
Takehiro Tomiyasu was not in first team training on Tuesday. This could just be precautionary or possibly an injury concern.
David Ornstein has reported Jorginho will get a new Arsenal contract at the end of this season to reward his importance to the club.
Stat of the Day: Since January 1st, Arsenal has won 43 out of 48 Premier League points. Before January 1st, the Gunners won 40 of 60 points..
Bukayo Saka, “We are not getting frustrated, we see it as a challenge that we want to fight until the end. Man City has set a standard and it’s up to the rest of us to try to be better than them.”
