Arsenal in ‘front row’ to sign Dutch star, fits into Arteta’s playing style – Football Today

Arsenal are in the ‘front row’ alongside Juventus and AC Milan to sign Bologna striker Joshua Zirkzee this summer, according to Gazzetta dello Sport.

The Gunners have been tipped to sign a new centre-forward during the next transfer window. Zirkzee has been mentioned as a target on numerous occasions.

Gazzetta dello Sport (page 6) now claim that the Gunners are in a three-way race with the Bianconeri and Rossoneri in the pursuit of the Dutch striker.

Bologna are currently eyeing €50-60 million plus bonuses and the Serie A duo may not be able to compete financially with Arsenal.

The Gunners are aware of Zirkzee’s desire to stay in Italy, but they could entice him with Mikel Arteta’s playing style and the lure of the Premier League.

Zirkzee speculation could be agent-driven

Arsenal have utilised Kai Havertz up front in recent months. The German has registered eight goals and five assists from his last 11 league appearances.

Despite this, the club continue to be linked with several strikers. Zirkzee has been highlighted as a target, but the speculation could be agent-driven.

The Dutchman has played a big part in Bologna’s Champions League push, but he has bagged only 12 goals and seven assists from 35 appearances this term.

Zirkzee would suit Arteta’s playing style with his good hold-up and link-up play. He has the ability to operate in deep attacking positions to initiate counter-attacks.

However, the Gunners need someone who can find the back of the net. It should be the first priority and Zirkzee may not make an instant impact.

Arsenal have a good working relationship with his representative Kia Joorabchian, having previously signed his clients Willian, Cedric Soares and Auston Trusty.

The Gunners seem to be being used as a negotiation tool to secure a transfer to either Milan or Juventus this summer.

Stats from Transfermarkt.com