Is Mkhitaryan a target for Arsenal this summer?
Over the course of the summer Arsenal are always linked with so many players that it actually seems we are targeting more players than there are days in the actual transfer window and this year seems no different.
But with every piece of speculation it is always good to get a debate going, to find out the fan’s opinion on the players we are linked with. Today’s subject piece is on Borussia Dortmund attacking midfielder Henrikh Mkhitaryan, who according to various sources including the Daily Express is interested in a move to the Premier League. It is assumed that Mkhitaryan has rejected a new contract offer from his current club and is looking to test himself in England. Arsenal are not the only suitors however, as apparently London rivals Chelsea are also keen on the 27 year old. Although Mkhitaryan only has a year left on his deal, i expect that Dortmund will still command a reasonably high fee for their attacking star, as the previous case of Robert Lewandowski proved. It seems the German club would rather a player run down their contract in hope of a late commitment, rather than to sell for a cheap fee. Therefore unless a big money offer comes in for midfielder Mkhitaryan, I can’t see him moving on this summer.
It is believed that Arsenal have an advantage in the race for the player, as Chelsea do not have any European football next season, a factor which surely is going to affect any decision from Mkhitaryan. However do Arsenal really need the Dortmund star?
Arsenal seemed to be crammed full with midfielders at the moment and competition in the middle is going to be tough next season when everyone is fit. Predominately Mkhitaryan plays in the centre attacking midfield position and whilst I cannot see Ozil being displaced, there is a chance the Dortmund player could be effective out wide on the Arsenal right flank. The right side position is not nailed down just yet and Wenger could consider a player for this position in the market. The position has been rotated all season and has seen the likes of Walcott, Oxlade Chamberlain, Iwobi, Campbell and even Wilshere and Ramsey playing out on the wing. Mkhitaryan could nail that place down in the team, however is he really what we need?
Personally he does offer Arsenal something different to what we usually have on the right wing, however I can’t see the transfer happening. Firstly I don’t think Wenger is interested in buying another midfielder this summer, despite Rosicky, Arteta and possibly Flamini all leaving. This could change however if we see further departures in midfield. I could see him being a massive upgrade on Walcott if he moves on to West Ham.
Secondly, as mentioned, Dortmund don’t roll over for cheap deals and they will hold out for a reasonable price on Mkhitaryan despite his decision to reject their latest contract offer as he approaches his final year.
Should Arsenal consider signing Mkhitaryan this summer?
BY AH