Arsenal are always looking for ways to become stronger. Now that Christian Nørgaard has acknowledged he will retire, they are interested in a new midfielder. His name is Aleksandar Stankovic, and he plays for Club Brugge in Belgium. Reports from Italy say Arsenal have a “great interest” in signing him. The young midfielder has played very well this season, both in his league and in the Champions League. But signing him will not be easy, as another big club also wants him back.
Why Arsenal are still looking for a twin of Christian Nørgaard
Last summer, Arsenal added two midfield players to their squad. They signed Martin Zubimendi and Christian Nørgaard. Zubimendi quickly became an important player in the Premier League. He helps Arsenal keep the ball and control games.
Christian Nørgaard also joined from Brentford. He brings experience and calm play. However, he has mostly played in cup matches and European games, not many league matches. Even though Arsenal have good midfield options, the club still want to plan for the future. They want young players who can grow and improve over time. That is why they are watching Stankovic closely.
Christian Nørgaard and why Arsenal need a long-term replacement
Christian Nørgaard is now 31 years old. He has already spoken about wanting to end his career at Brondby, the club where he started. His contract at Arsenal runs until 2027, with an option for one more year.
Because of his age and future plans, Arsenal may look for someone to replace him in the coming years. The club does not want to wait until the last moment. Instead, they want a young player who can learn slowly and be ready when needed. Aleksandar Stankovic could be that player. He is younger, energetic, and already used to playing big matches in Europe.
Why Aleksandar Stankovic has impressed this season
Stankovic joined Club Brugge after leaving Inter Milan. In his first season, he has done very well. He passes the ball accurately and reads the game well. In the Belgian league, he completes 88 per cent of his passes. That shows he is calm and careful with the ball.
He also works hard without the ball. He wins 61 per cent of his duels and makes many recoveries each game. In the Champions League, his numbers are also strong. He loses the ball only 7.3 times per match, which is less than Zubimendi this season. Because of this, Arsenal believe he could fit well into their midfield system.
Why the transfer could be difficult for Arsenal
Even though Arsenal like Stankovic, the transfer will not be simple. Inter Milan included a buy-back clause when they sold him to Club Brugge. This clause allows Inter to bring him back for £20 million next summer.
Inter are already planning to use this clause. If Arsenal want him instead, they would need to pay much more. Reports suggest Arsenal may need to offer £30 million or even more to convince Inter to sell him quickly for profit. This makes the deal expensive and risky.
Mixed feelings among Arsenal supporters
Some love the idea of signing a young midfielder for the future. Others worry about the high price and question if he is needed now. Many fans trust Arteta’s plan but want the club to spend wisely and build a strong team step by step. So mixed feelings of excitement and nervousness among supporters.
Author’s Opinion
As featured on GoonerNews.com
