Arsenal are set to launch a move for RB Leipzig star Antonio Nusa after Real Madrid’s Vinicius Jr decided to stay put in the Spanish capital.
The Gunners remain keen on signing a new left-winger, following Leandro Trossard’s departure, despite already wrapping up a deal for Christos Tzolis, and Thierry Henry is a big fan of Nusa.
After the Norwegian scored against the Ivory Coast in the World Cup round of 32, the Frenchman said: “That’s why so many observers have been talking about his immense potential for years. He’s fast, direct and unpredictable. When he gets into position and charges towards defenders, he becomes a real nightmare to contain. Tonight, he demonstrated that he can shine on the biggest stage in football.”
Not only did the 21-year-old deliver on the biggest stage, but he was also a consistent performer for RB Leipzig at club level last season, picking up four goals and three assists in 31 Bundesliga appearances.
One of the youngster’s most impressive traits is his ability to drive at opposition defences, averaging 3.0 successful dribbles per 90 in the Bundesliga last season, which was the second-highest number in the RB Leipzig squad.
Having caught the eye for club and country, the RB Leipzig man could now be in line for a big move this summer.
Arsenal planning move for Antonio Nusa
According to a report from Caught Offside, Arsenal are now exploring a move for Nusa, should they fail to sign Vinicius Jr, who has just one year remaining on his Real Madrid contract, meaning his future is still in doubt despite reports he is set to stay put.
RB Leipzig value their forward at £51m though, so a deal would be expensive, and he is not the only option on the shortlist, with Christian Pulisic, Ibrahim Mbaye and Brahim Díaz also under consideration.
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Which Vinicius Jr alternative should Arsenal sign? |
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Antonio Nusa |
Nusa has nine goals in 30 caps for Norway, while he has also amassed ten goals and 11 assists in 71 matches since joining RB Leipzig. However, even though that is a respectable return, the Langhus-born star is yet to have an especially prolific season in front of goal. |
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Christian Pulisic |
Pulisic is more experienced at 27-years-old, and the USMNT star has chipped in with 42 goals and 27 assists in 134 games for AC Milan. The former Chelsea man has also played in the Premier League before, but he is more suited to playing on the right. |
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Ibrahim Mbaye |
Mbaye is more of a left-field option, considering the PSG forward is still only 18-years-old. Last season, the youngster featured for just 998 minutes in Ligue 1, picking up three goals and two assists, which indicates he may be some way off reaching his potential. |
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Brahim Diaz |
Like Nusa, Diaz has been impressive in front of goal at international level, netting on 14 occasions in 32 appearances for Morocco. The Real Madrid star is also experienced at a top club, picking up 22 goals and 30 assists in 163 appearances for the Spanish heavyweights, which suggests he would be able to make an instant impact at the Emirates Stadium. |
Arsenal also remain keen on improving their midfield this summer, and they are still in the hunt for Newcastle United star Bruno Guimaraes.
An offer of around £80m may be accepted by the Magpies, despite the fact they have already sold Sandro Tonali this summer.
