Why Arsenal should go for Roma’s rising star Cengiz Under
According to the Express, Arsenal are in pole position to sign Roma star Cengiz Under. The Turkish attacking midfielder is considered as one of the hottest properties in Europe at the moment after making the move to Italy last season.
He has scored a total of 7 goals in 26 appearances under Eusebio Di Francesco since the start of last season. He has also attracted interest from a number of other clubs, with Bayern Munich also showing a keen interest. But any potential suitor has pay Roma’s £52million valuation of the 21-year-old. (Express)
The Serie A outfit have to pay a sizeable chunk to Under’s former employers Istanbul Basaksehir after agreeing on a 20% sell-on clause with the club (h/t Express). But Unai Emery should definitely consider making a move for the player.
Under has been making a name for himself over the last year and has shown a meteoric rise in his performance. His style of football seems like a perfect fit for Unai Emery’s philosophy. Under is known for his technical prowess and superb creativity on the pitch.
After a stellar debut campaign with Roma, the Turkish midfielder has started this season in strong form as well, scoring 1 goal and providing 2 assists in the Serie A so far. The 21-year-old has also picked up 1 goal and 1 assist in the Champions League. (Stats courtesy – Whoscored)
Though not the fastest player on the ball, he is definitely comfortable in possession and can pull himself out of pressure situations as well.
It’s his link-up passing that would make him a huge hit at the Emirates. The Gunners are known for their ping-pong football in the final third and that’s where Under would come handy.
He is capable of fitting into either of Emery’s 4-4-2 or 4-2-3-1. In the latter set-up, Under would flourish playing as a right attacking midfielder as he does so at Rome.
He is definitely capable of creating a number of opportunities and his deliveries are excellent as well. The likes of Alexandre Lacazette and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang will surely thrive off his supply.
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Unai Emery should certainly beat his competitors to the signing of one of Europe’s prodigies. Under has proven to be a top quality midfielder at such a young age and the Turkish international will only get better.
Arsenal are on the rise under the new manager and signing Under would further enhance their squad to compete on all fronts.