Arsenal, West Ham battle for €50m attacker Chukwueze
Arsenal are one of three Premier League suitors for Nigeria and Villarreal winger, Samuel Chukwueze.
Chukwueze is a bright prospect for Villarreal, where he has established himself over the past few seasons. He made his first-team debut in September 2018 and hasn’t looked back since. Just two months later, he was making his international debut for Nigeria.
As his stock has continued to rise, Chukwueze has attracted glances from other clubs. He was named as a potential target for Liverpool last year, for example.
But one of his regular admirers is Arsenal, and it seems they remain interested. According to Fichajes, the Premier League could be a destination for the African and the Gunners are a suitor.
Arsenal are looking for more options in attack. Willian has failed to live up to expectations since joining from Chelsea, while doubts remain about whether Martin Odegaard can stay permanently after his loan from Real Madrid.
Nicolas Pepe has also not delivered what was expected of him since his 2019 arrival. Hence, Arsenal could do with another winger they can rely on.
But if Chukwueze is the man they want to fill that void, they will not have a clear path at him. The report also adds that West Ham and Everton are interested.
The Hammers are currently looking for a new centre-forward after selling Sebastien Haller in January. Chukwueze does not play centrally but West Ham could still consider him for attacking depth.
As for Everton, there have been rumours about a potential departure for James Rodriguez. The playmaker insists that won’t be the case but if it does materialise, they will need to find a solution.
There is also competition for Chukwueze’s signature from Spain. Atletico Madrid are keen to sign him too and the opportunity to stay in La Liga could help the 21-year-old’s development.
But Fichajes believe Chukwueze’s qualities are a perfect fit for the Premier League. As such, they predict that English teams will increase their interest.
Whoever signs him will have to fork out a large sum. Fichajes expect him to cost in the region of €50m.
Another target for Arsenal with a similar first name to Chukwueze’s is Empoli midfielder Samuele Ricci.
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One of the rising stars of Italian football, the 19-year-old has admirers in the Premier League. According to Tuttomercatoweb, Arsenal and Leicester are keen.
Both have apparently made contact with his agent Federico Pastorello. Empoli are expected to cash in on Ricci this summer even if they win promotion to Serie A.
The midfielder’s contract expires in 2022, so they would rather not lose him for a tribunal fee.
That could present an opportunity for Arsenal if they want to strengthen that area of the pitch as well.