There is a lot of uncertainty (report by Mirror) regarding the future of Paris Saint-Germain midfielder Adrien Rabiot. Rabiot is out of contract at the end of this month and a new deal is yet to be signed to extend his stay at Parc des Princes.
While doubts exist over an extension, Arsenal could make a move for the talented Frenchman and bring him to the Emirates. Unai Emery’s troops squandered the chance to get into the Champions League tailing away at the end of the season and must now be proactive in the transfer market to build for the next season.
Here are three reasons why the north London based outfit must try and acquire the signature of the Ligue 1 midfield maestro.
Replacement for Aaron Ramsey
Aaron Ramsey’s departure implies that there is a massive void left to be filled in the midfield and to that end, Arsenal would strike gold if they manage to lure Rabiot to the Emirates Stadium. His distribution skills will be crucial for Arsenal in unlocking the opposition’s defence.
Rabiot would be a readymade replacement for the Welshman owing to the fact that the former is also a box-to-box midfielder and shows a lot of commitment while going forward. Besides, he operates with a lot of energy and would make life less difficult for Arsenal in the absence of Ramsey.
A reunion
Emery had worked with Rabiot during the former’s spell at PSG and he is well aware of what the midfielder brings to the table. Besides, Arsenal, under Emery, attempted to play an expansive brand of football and for that, Emery must be backed to make his own choices.
PSG coach Thomas Tuchel had sidelined Rabiot last season, handing him just 12 starts in Ligue 1. Therefore, a move to Arsenal, where he is likely to be a regular starter, should help him bring his career back on the right track.
A free signing
The Gunners have a lot to worry about, especially about their stuttering defence. Laurent Koscielny is beyond his prime, Stephen Lichtsteiner has left the club and Shkodran Mustafi has undoubtedly flattered to deceive ever since his move to Arsenal. Impliedly, signing at least a couple of competent central defenders holds a lot of importance.
Arsenal are likely to operate on a restricted budget this summer and in that case, a high-quality midfielder available on a free should be pursued with complete conviction and intent.
Don’t even think about it. Do it. Walk the walk Arsenal. Sign some top players.
If Rabiot is available for free, Arsenal should sign him because the player is talented and he showed his dominance in midfield when he met great engines like Modric, Busquets, Casemiro and Rakitic.