Transfer Rumour
According to Calcio Mercato, Yannick Ferreira Carrasco is keen to return to Europe after spending almost a year in the Chinese Super League. And it is believed that Arsenal and Juventus have been alerted to Carrasco’s situation after both of them initially failed to sign him up earlier this year.
Arsenal, in particular, could make a move for the former Atletico superstar in the winter transfer window, should the rumour appear to be true. But, will it be a prudent move by the Gunners?
Player profile and attributes
Yannick Ferreira Carrasco is predominantly a winger, who is known for his dynamism in the final third. The Belgian attacker enjoyed a lot of success during his time with Atletico Madrid, notably being a part of Atletico’s Europa League winning campaign last season, even though he did leave the club halfway through the season.
During his two and a half year spell with the club, Carrasco made 124 competitive appearances, scoring 23 goals whilst providing 17 assists. His ability to carve out opposition defence with sharp runs in behind the defence, instantly made him a popular figure at Los Colchoneros. As a result, his move to China earlier this year came as a huge surprise to the onlookers of European football.
But, the Belgian did score five goals and muster eight assists in just 18 Chinese top-flight appearances this campaign, playing a prominent role for the Dalian Yifang attack. In addition, Carrasco was also selected in Belgium’s squad for the 2018 FIFA World Cup earlier this summer, where he helped his nation finish third in the coveted competition.
Why Arsenal need Yannick Ferreira Carrasco
Carrasco could be an excellent signing for Arsenal for a number of reasons. First of which, is the fact that the Gunners are in dire need of a winger, who can replace Alexis Sanchez. The Chilean’s departure at the start of the year left a huge gaping hole in the Arsenal attack, which is yet to be filled despite the acquisitions of Henrikh Mkhitaryan and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang in January.
Carrasco, in that regard, could be an ideal candidate given his ample amount of experience in top-flight football. In addition, he is also blessed with technical qualities, which will certainly help him link-up with the likes of Mesut Ozil, Henrikh Mkhitaryan and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang in the Arsenal final third.
Most importantly, it’s his pace and tenacity which makes him a tailor-made fit for Unai Emery’s tactical philosophy. He can be deployed as the left-winger, ultimately allowing Aubameyang to play in a more central role. However, it remains to be seen whether Arsenal are prepared to take the plunge and show ambition after a positive start to the season.
The fans will surely hope that they do.
Stats Courtesy: Whoscored
