Arsenal could sell Folarin Balogun and Eddie Nketiah this summer with both linked with exits that could open up the chance of a major centre-forward signing
There’s a very real possibility that Arsenal could sell both Folarin Balogun and Eddie Nketiah this month. A double exit would mean a significant influx of funds and a sudden necessity to strengthen the centre-forward role, with only Gabriel Jesus and Leandro Trossard left to fulfil the position with other potential versatile deputies.
With that in mind, football.london takes a look at the three possible options that Arsenal could make a move for with a serious amount of money available to reinvest into the market. Each player has been linked with moves away from their teams, fits the age bracket of the player the club has made plays for and would represent a serious reinforcement of quality.
Randal Kolo Muani
The first is my personal pick and a player who has been on the radar of the likes of Bayern Munich, PSG and Manchester United already this summer. Randal Kolo Muani has made his name in Frankfurt and the French national side with his impressive goal contribution haul of 40 across 46 games.
This included 15 goals and 14 assists in the Bundesliga from 32 appearances. Muani has also shown the potential to be versatile and play in a wide right position which means he could play with Gabriel Jesus and provide some reprieve for Bukayo Saka too.
There’s little doubt the Frenchman could cost close to €100million, but with the money in for Nketiah and Balogun, perhaps this figure isn’t too much of a stretch, especially with the ability to cover the right wing area too which is seen as another need with time remaining in the window regardless of the touted exit of strikers.
Goncalo Ramos
Next on the list is another of Europe’s most appreciated young strikers. Another one to come through at Benfica, following a long line of forwards from the Portuguese capital, is Goncalo Ramos.
A far more traditional number nine than Kolo Muani, Ramos managed 19 league goals in 30 appearances for the Portuguese champions but chipped in with a further seven assists. His height and physicality would add another dimension to Arsenal were they to bring in the player.
He gained notoriety for replacing Cristiano Ronaldo in the Portugal side for the Round of 16 clash with Switzerland, where he scored a hat-trick on the biggest stage. Ramos comes with form, momentum and top-level experience that Arsenal would relish but, without doubt, would have to pay a big fee for.
The Canadian international was touted as a striker option for the Gunners prior to their move for Gabriel Jesus due to his similar collaborative style.
He has continued at Lille despite flirting with a move to an elite side. He managed 24 goals last season, including one against PSG, Marseille, two against Lens and a hat-trick against Lyon.
David seems to be in a position where he needs to take the next step in his career and it could be with Arsenal. Although, as the Gunners know after signing Nicolas Pepe, Lille can drive a hard bargain.
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