A Canadian winger has set his sights on joining Arsenal, while Ian Wright has taken a swipe at Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins.
Arteta balancing injuries and transfer chatter
Mikel Arteta is getting his Arsenal side ready for a tough trip to Newcastle. But, the noise around transfers refuses to quiet down. The good news for him is that Bukayo Saka looks fit again after a scare in the Carabao Cup. After a frustrating draw with Man City, the head coach is under pressure to show his tactical bite against a Newcastle. The Magpies team has been rock solid at the back.
Although, the bigger picture keeps circling back to past and future transfer targets. Before Viktor Gyokeres became the answer up front, Arsenal explored Ollie Watkins as a potential signing. But Villa’s £80m valuation priced the London club out of the move.
That figure now looks steep, with Watkins struggling to find form. Arsenal legend Ian Wright hasn’t hidden his doubts, hinting that his old club may have avoided an expensive mistake.
Canadian winger wants Arsenal move
While Watkins drifts in and out of form, a different forward is dreaming of North London. Jayden Nelson is currently playing his football at Vancouver Whitecaps. Speaking to GiveMeSport, he has shared about his dream to play for Arsenal.
The Canadian winger has had brief spells in Norway and Germany before making his mark in MLS. There, he’s shown glimpses of his creativity despite a decent goal return. Three goals and ten assists this season underline his eye for a pass. Also, those stats have mostly come off the bench.
Whether Arsenal actually pursue Nelson remains to be seen. But, his public call makes it clear where his ambitions lie. For Arteta, it’s another name on a growing list of talents linked with the Emirates.
Author’s Opinion:
Watkins’ £80m valuation was too huge. Ian Wright’s criticism only backs that up. Nelson might not be a superstar yet. But, his hunger and creativity make him a prospect worth keeping an eye on.
As featured on GoonerNews.com
