Arsenal Transfer News: Why Gunners Would Be Best Fit for Rising Star Nick Powell

There is no shortage of teams currently in the running for 18-year-old Crewe Alexandra stud Nick Powell, but of all the squads in pursuit of the potential star, Arsenal would make the most sense for both sides.

According to Alan Nixon of Mirror Football, Arsenal is in a bidding war at the moment with both Manchester United and Liverpool as they vie for Powell's services. Arsenal has offered the most for him thus far, but there is still no resolution in sight.

Powell netted 15 goals and chipped in seven assists for Crewe this season in English League Two, and although the English Premier League is a huge step up in terms of competition, he is considered to be an elite prospect by most. He has some great options with regards to where to go, but Arsenal offers the perfect mix of contention and need.

Manchester United is obviously a threat to win the EPL every season, so that is something that is likely to appeal to Powell. At the same time, though, the Red Devils are stocked with talent and will almost certainly have to loan Powell out this season, and perhaps beyond, in order to get him ample playing time.

Liverpool may offer the best opportunity for Powell to play in the EPL right away, but it has a lot of ground to make up before it is at the same level as Man U. Powell will probably have to go through some growing pains with the Reds, and they may not be as competitive as he hoped.

Arsenal, on the other hand, finished third in the EPL this past season, and could have an immediate spot open for Powell. Robin van Persie may very well be on his way out, and although the Gunners signed Lukas Podolski as a contingency plan, Podolski is quite flexible and can play anywhere up front in order to open a spot for Powell.

Powell is an attacking midfielder by trade, and that is something that Arsenal could really benefit from. It isn't unprecedented for someone as young as Powell to enter the Premier League and produce at a high level right away, so if Arsenal gives him a chance immediately, then it might be the best thing for his development.

I have to imagine that Powell wants to play as soon as possible in the EPL, and he obviously wants to win as well, so Arsenal is a perfect fit. There are no guarantees that he will be good from the start, but if Powell can enter the big time sooner rather than later, I'm sure he'll try to do it.

Powell doesn't have all the power in terms of where he goes since Crewe is looking for the best offer, but he will be able to influence Crewe's decision. If the Gunners remain in the running, then Powell would be very wise to go with them. The road to stardom in the EPL can be a long one, but Arsenal may offer him the shortest route.

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