Forget Ever Banega – These 3 midfielders could be realistic alternatives for Arsenal including Real Madrid star
According to reports, Arsenal are interested in signing Sevilla midfielder Ever Banega this summer. Banega, 29, who is currently on international duty with Argentina for the World Cup, has a release clause in the region of €20m in his current contract with Sevilla.
Having worked with the Argentine at Valencia and Sevilla, new Arsenal manager Unai Emery wants to bring the midfielder to the Emirates Stadium and has reportedly contacted Banega personally to discuss a potential move.
However, Sevilla are reportedly determined not to sell Banega and are planning to hold talks with him after he returns from the World Cup.
With that in mind, Emery must chalk out alternatives should he fail to land Banega in the summer. And here are three players the Arsenal boss must consider.
Aleksandr Golovin (CSKA Moscow)
Golovin is having a World Cup to remember in his home country. His performances for Russia have not gone unnoticed as a host of European clubs are interested in signing him after the mega event.
The 22-year-old is a highly technical player, who boasts an excellent passing range and ability. He is a set-piece specialist and possesses the flair to produce something out of nothing. Predominantly, Golovin is a box-to-box midfielder but he is highly versatile, capable of playing out wide or just behind the striker.
CSKA Moscow are open to selling Golovin for about €25m, and it could be an absolute steal for Arsenal should they succeed in landing him this summer.
Mateo Kovacic (Real Madrid)
Mateo Kovacic has made it clear he would like to leave Real Madrid this summer after failing to get sufficient first-team chances. Should he become available, Arsenal must splash the cash to sign him.
Kovacic is an all-action midfielder and while it might be hard to lure him away from the Spanish giants, he might be worth an attempt as he would add steel to Arsenal’s flimsy midfield.
The Croatian is an established star, who can walk into Arsenal’s first-team and solve their midfield problems for years to come.
All in all, Kovacic would be a fantastic addition for the Gunners.
Hector Herrera (FC Porto)
Herrera has been an ever-present figure for Mexico, who won their first two group-stage games in the World Cup.
Read more: Why Emery must think twice before bringing this 5-goal Argentine star to Arsenal
He plies his trade for FC Porto and marshals their midfield with intensity and guile, showcasing his elusive skills and abilities.
Herrera’s leadership skills, along with his ability to score and provide assists would make him a valuable asset to Arsenal’s squad.
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