Bayern Munich star's potential move to Arsenal for a boost in attack: source reveals discussion
Fresh Take:
Arsenal’s needle is poised for action, engaging in negotiations with a top Bayern Munich player to inject some electric energy into their attack.
The Gunners' stellar performance last season, finishing second in the Premier League and reaching the Champions League semis, has Mikel Arteta itching to push the club to new heights and claim major trophies.
With Arsenal struggling to find a proficient goalscorer, the attacking sector may demand focus this summer, as high-profile names circle North London's radius.
Arsenal in discussions with a high-profile Bayern Munich player
Kai Havertz, though criticized at times this season, stirred the pot at Arsenal with 15 goals across all competitions – a strong tally despite his extended injury absence. The clear need for a new center-forward could rejuvenate Arteta's attack, but with the burden partially carried by Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli on the wings, there may be another wing ace joining the N5 crowd, too.
According to the Athletic's James McNicholas, Arsenal has already held conversations with Leroy Sane on a return to the Premier League.
The Bayern Munich star's contract expires in June, and with the versatility to play on either flank, Sane could deliver top-quality performance without a hefty transfer fee.
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Understanding that a winger might not be Arteta's top priority, resources could instead be channeled towards acquiring a sought-after forward like Benjamin Sesko, who has garnered an eye-popping £92 million valuation by RB Leipzig.
If Arsenal decides to pursue Sesko over Viktor Gyokeres, a more affordable alternative might be procured on the wings, as Gabriel Jesus continues his recovery from an anterior cruciate ligament injury, and Raheem Sterling rejoins after his loan stint. With their former Manchester City team-mate Sane fitting the bill perfectly, his potential signing seems a distinct possibility.
Rumors of Sane's interest in returning to England have persisted all season, possibly due to Sane wanting to instigate a bidding war between Bayern and potential suitors. Arteta, allegedly, harbors a fondness for the player.
The 29-year-old's value is estimated at €38m by Transfermarkt.
Sane could potentially reinstate a familiar Arteta tactic
In 2022, Arsenal was heavily linked with Raphinha, despite possessing a world-class right-winger in Saka. The Brazilian is now a prime contender for the Ballon d'Or, having operated as a left-winger throughout the season… possibly indicating a plan from Arteta on how he envisioned utilizing him.
It's undoubtedly true that, over the last couple of years, Martinelli has embraced a more touchline-oriented role on the left-hand side, despite being right-footed – and that much of the frustrations Martinelli has provoked in Arsenal supporters stem from his preference for taking on defenders beyond the touchline, instead of darting into the box and unleashing shots.
With that being said, Arsenal's pursuits of Sane may hint at a desire for a more balanced, left-footed winger to challenge the status quo and provide a different dynamic on the field.
Sane's performance for City showcases the unique possibilities he'd bring to Arsenal, as a left-footed left-winger who dynamically stretches the attack and creates spaces for his in-field colleagues. Firing on both wings, he could craft plenty of space for Declan Rice's surges from deep, while offering a more natural crossing angle.
Sane's prowess on the right could also boost Saka's backup role, as Arteta missed out on Raphinha – but the tantalizing possibility of landing a similar profile on that left-wing sector may have never left Arteta's strategic thoughts.
- Arsenal's negotiations with Leroy Sane, a versatile Bayern Munich player, could potentially see him join the Premier League, adding a left-footed winger to Mikel Arteta's attack and providing a different dynamic on the field.
- As Arsenal considers signing Benjamin Sesko, a highly coveted forward, it's possible that they might also focus on acquiring an affordable winger, such as Gabriel Jesus or Raheem Sterling recovering from injuries, to ensure balance on both flanks, potentially with Leroy Sane joining the N5 crowd.
