Transfer Speculation
As per one of the latest reports by talkSPORT, Arsenal are keeping close tabs on Ajax’s sensational youngster, Justin Kluivert. However, it would not be easy for the Gunners to make Kluivert sign on the dotted line in the summer as his calibre and productivity has attracted attention from other big clubs in Europe such as Chelsea, Manchester United, Tottenham Hotspur and Barcelona.
Fact File
Kluivert came up through the youth ranks of Ajax, which has produced a plethora of top quality footballers. He is the son of former Dutch international, Patrick Kluivert, and his developmental process has caught the eye. The winger made his debut with Jong Ajax in 2016 and after a few months, he was handed his first game for Ajax. Besides, he has featured regularly for the youth sides of his National team.
Attributes
The 18-year-old has already shown promising signs of developing into a world-class winger and the manner in which he seamlessly dribbles while on the pitch is arguably his strongest suit. He is quick, mobile and has the ability to twist and turn with the ball to get away from opposition defenders with relative ease.
He is an astute passer of the ball, showcases his attacking prowess in the final third more often than not and operates with the tendency to stretch the backline of the opposition. Kluivert also links up with his teammates well and is compatible with his fellow offensive players. Moreover, he is someone who caters to the defensive duties and despite his young age, he has shown immense maturity and calmness.
Season So Far
The Dutchman has engineered a productive season so far as he has smashed 6 goals and has also notched up 4 assists to his name from 20 games in the Dutch top flight. Besides, his pass completion rate of 86.8% is spectacular. On top of that, he has also garnered Champions League and Europa League appearances under his belt.
Why Arsenal Should Sign Him?
Kluivert needs to accumulate more experience under his belt and it would be important for him to keep making his presence felt in the upcoming months. The Premier League is a different ballgame altogether, particularly in terms of physicality. Notably, Kluivert is a bit lightweight, but he is still young and can work on that aspect. Arsenal are expected to beef up their attacking armoury in the summer and someone like the Ajax prodigy will be right up Wenger’s alley.
Statistics Credits: WhoScored