Arsenal are in desperate need of a new striker this summer but have so far not had much luck on the transfer front. Supposed rejection from Jamie Vardy and inconclusive reports following on from Gonzalo Higuain, Karim Benzema and Álvaro Morata, Arsenal need to start turning our attention elsewhere, with Nolito to being a possible target.
The BBC today understands that Nolito is currently in talks with Manchester City over a possible move. The BBC has reported a very low release clause in Nolito’s contract, which stands at £13.8 million. Cheap as chips for player of Nolito’s quality. The Spaniard has also been linked with a move to Barcelona, where he actually started his career as a youth player. Nolito was actually given his debut by new Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola and it seems the pair are quite keen to link up again.
With that release clause in mind and Nolito’s supposed willingness to leave Celta Vigo this summer, should Arsene Wenger be looking at striking up an offer for the Spaniard? I don’t think Nolito is the answer to all our problems, however it’s a seriously low price that Arsenal must surely take the gamble on and make an offer at the very least.
There are a few concerns however, first of which is his age. We were all quick to talk about Jamie Vardy being 29 years old and how we couldn’t get too many years out of him at his peak. Well it would be the same with Nolito and the fact that he has no experience of playing in England, does that make him even more of a risk than Vardy?
Secondly Nolito is more of a wingman than a striker and although we don’t have too many recognised wingers at the club, especially not to a high standard of ability, we should be focusing less on another midfield type player and instead be targeting a player who will be a regular upfront and be able to deliver to the high standards in front of goal that we expect.
With this in mind, although Nolito is a steal at the price rumoured, I’m not sure he is the striker we are looking for. I think Arsenal should surely make a bid for him however unlikely as it is, because with Man City and his former boss calling, it’s more than likely he would value City over Arsenal. However an offer from the Gunners should still be made because he could be a valuable asset to the club in the wing position.
What do we think Gooners? Worth a go?
By AH