The decision-makers at Arsenal have now turned their focus toward Club Brugge sensation Nicolo Tresoldi as a primary summer target. While Mikel Arteta remains fully focused on the title race, journalist Christian Falk suggests that the Gunners now lead the race for the clinical forward.
Tresoldi has had a brilliant season in Belgium, scoring 17 goals and providing five assists in 48 games. Just as importantly, the 21-year-old proved he can handle the big stage in Europe by scoring three times in the Champions League proper. Falk, writing for CaughtOffside, indicates that formal talks are already moving forward between the two clubs.
Despite Arsenal spending big on Viktor Gyokeres last year, the Swedish international has struggled with the physical side of the Premier League. So, the scouts see Tresoldi as a necessary tactical upgrade to provide real competition for a front line often held back by the constant injuries to Gabriel Jesus and Kai Havertz. The German youth international, who moved from Hannover 96 for €7 million last summer, is currently under contract until 2029. (Via FourFourTwo)
Will Nicolo Tresoldi solve the lack of ruthlessness at the Emirates?
Going after Nicolo Tresoldi is a real shift in strategy compared to the recent trend of buying established stars. At 21, the striker offers a physical profile that Arsenal currently lack: a traditional number nine with elite predatory instincts. His commitment to the German national setup suggests he has the discipline Arteta looks for.
Tresoldi is great at finding space between central defenders, even if his link-up play is still a bit raw compared to Havertz’s fluid movement. He has a great pace, which will allow Arsenal to play a higher defensive line, though he’ll need to improve in the air for the physical demands of English football.
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It’s a massive risk to rely on Jesus or Havertz with their track records. That’s why bringing in a natural goalscorer who can lead the line for a decade is the most sensible move. Tresoldi has the kind of massive potential that justifies the big fee Brugge will likely demand this summer. He is a necessary insurance policy against the current attack going stale.
