Why Daniel Podence would be a terrific signing for Arsenal

According to a report from the Express, Arsenal have been linked with a move for Olympiakos star Daniel Podence.

Daniel Podence, 23, hit eight goals and nine assists for Olympiakos last season, having joined after ripping up his Sporting contract. He has two goals and an assist this term, with the Portuguese notably delivering a fantastic display in the 2-2 draw with Tottenham Hotspur in the Champions League.

The nippy wide-man was key in his team’s incredible comeback against Tottenham, which came after they went two goals following Harry Kane’s penalty and Lucas Moura’s strike. He fired one back in just before half-time following an incredible run from the right-wing and brought the home fans on their feet in Piraeus.

The report adds Olympiakos won’t agree to sell for anything less than £22million. Going by Daniel Podence’s impressive performances so far this season, should Arsenal make a move for the Olympiakos player in January? Of course, they should.

Arsenal broke their transfer record in summer by signing Nicholas Pepe from LOSC Lille, after netting 23 goals and laying on 12 assists in just 41 games last season. He helped Lille qualify for the Champions League, pushing them into second place.

However, Pepe is coming under criticism at Arsenal for his ineffective performances. Making 10 appearances in all competitions, the Ivorian has scored just one goal from the penalty spot in a 3-2 win over Aston Villa.

Pepe may have not set the world alight at the Emirates but manager Unai Emery will be quite pleased with the performances of young talents like Gabriel Martinelli, Joe Willock, Bukayo Saka and Reiss Nelson this season.

With Henrikh Mkhitaryan sent on loan to AS Roma and Mesut Ozil apparently not in Emery’s plans, the Gunners could do well with another winger.

Daniel Podence would be a good fit at the Emirates. An inverted left-winger by trade, Podence is defined by insane speed and combines his lightning pace with flair and athleticism to add that spark to the attack. His technical prowess allows him to receive the ball with minimal errors and run comfortably with the ball at his feet.

Although the Portuguese lacks the physical strength to win aerial duels, he is quite adept at holding on to the ball and has the ability to make quick turns to buy himself that extra yard of space.

The former Sporting Lisbon man’s low centre of gravity allows him to glide past players without much difficulty and stretch the opposition backline.

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All in all, Podence is a very dynamic player and his raw pace and direct running would make Arsenal more potent during counter-attacks.

Verdict

Podence is a highly talented player and his qualities are certain to excite the Arsenal fans. He would be a sensational long-term signing for the Gunners, solving the team’s problems at wide department.