Arsenal in race for 'new Berbatov' as the Gunners eye striker double deal
Arsenal have made contact with the agency representing two of European football's hottest attacking prospects as Mikel Arteta looks to bolster his forward options, according to CaughtOffside.
The north London side have reportedly reached out to the 11WINS agency, who represent both Eintracht Frankfurt winger Can Uzun and Club Brugge striker Nicolo Tresoldi, as Arsenal explore potential moves for both players.
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Arsenal 'sounded out' over Uzun
Arsenal are described as being 'among the Premier League clubs leading the race' for the 20 year old Uzun, who has been compared to Dimitar Berbatov for his 'classy' and elegant style of play. He has racked up four goals and three assists in just six matches this season, largely operating from the left wing, though he is also capable of playing as a No 10.
A source told CaughtOffside: “Arsenal have had some initial contacts about Can Uzun. I can't say for sure if he's at the top of their list, but they like him and they're not alone in that. Eintracht Frankfurt are aware of the interest, but will point to his €60m release clause.”
Uzun was reportedly available for €40m (£34m) over the summer, but his form this season means Frankfurt are now holding out for his full €60m (£50m) release clause to be triggered. Arsenal face competition from Aston Villa, Brighton, Everton, Borussia Dortmund and AC Milan for his signature.
Tresoldi eyed as Gyokeres alternative
The Sun reported this week that Arsenal are also weighing up a move for Tresoldi as a potential long term replacement for Viktor Gyokeres up front, amid growing concerns over the Swede's suitability for the role. The 22 year old has been in electric form for Brugge this season, scoring nine goals in 13 appearances, including a hat trick in a stunning 4-3 away win over Inter in the Champions League earlier this month.
Brugge are said to want £42m for Tresoldi, a fee that would surpass Christos Tzolis as the club's biggest ever sale. Manchester United have also registered interest, but Arsenal are currently understood to hold the stronger position.
Arsenal's existing relationship with Brugge, forged through the Tzolis deal in the summer, could work in their favour. However, TEAMtalk have reported that Brugge are determined to keep hold of Tresoldi in January, meaning any serious negotiations would likely have to wait until next summer.
Arsenal's summer business saw Bruno Guimaraes, Ezri Konsa, Tzolis and Illan Meslier arrive, alongside Piero Hincapie's loan move being made permanent for €40m (£34m). Tzolis has since become Arsenal's first choice left winger following the departures of Leandro Trossard and Gabriel Martinelli, though Arteta is understood to be keen on bringing in competition for the Greek international.
Both deals remain in the early stages, but they point to Arsenal's broader strategy of reinforcing the final third with young, in form attacking talent over the coming transfer windows.
