Arsenal Transfer News: Gunners Present Perfect Destination for Zakaria Bakkali

Arsenal are reportedly on the list of clubs interested in the services of PSV Eindhoven youngster Zakaria Bakkali, and Arsene Wenger's proficiency at nurturing young talent would present the perfect situation for the troubled winger.

The Daily Express' Anthony Chapman reports that PSV are resigned to the fact the Belgian international will be leaving in January. He rejected their latest contract offer, something sporting director Marcel Brands thinks was a terrible decision:

"

Of course it's bad for the club.

But I think it's actually worse for the player himself. It is a shame that a young player with talent does not choose the right path.

People might think I am naive but I don't blame the guy or his father.

The problem is that Zakaria is getting influenced by everything and everyone around him.

"

Fans might know Bakkali best from FIFA 14, but in the real world he became an overnight sensation early in the 2013-14 season with several sensational performances.

He embarrassed Belgian club Zulte Waregem in the Champions League qualifiers and followed that up by becoming the youngest player to score a hat-trick in the Eredivisie against NEC. A star was born, and he was rewarded with his very first call-up to the Belgian national team.

The 18-year-old seemed destined for big things, but things quickly started to unravel. His performances took a nosedive at about the same time PSV started losing matches, and with their season taking a turn for the worse, manager Phillip Cocu opted to start more veteran players to turn the tide.

The relationship between Bakkali and PSV turned sour, and by the end of the season the youngster only made the headlines for his behaviour and unwillingness to sign a new deal. As shared by Belgian football expert John Chapman, the club certainly didn't help the situation either:

Bakkali is flawed. Unlike his virtual counterpart in FIFA 14, he still has a long way to go before he can make good on the potential he displayed in September of 2013. All of the physical tools are there, but as of right now the mental aspect of being a professional football player eludes him.

The potential is visible: He's both fast and quick, is very technical and has a keen eye for goal, and he has all of the confidence in the world to combine those attributes. When looking at Bakkali, you can't help but see an 18-year-old Eden Hazard—with the same running style and explosive skills when changing direction.

It's his confidence that's (partially) holding him back. Bakkali wants to play all the time, believes he's ready for the big stage and will sulk when things don't go his way.

Claude Paris/Associated Press

Confidence is an important trait for an attacker, something that needs to be nurtured, not suppressed. The best wingers in the world all have a certain arrogance around them on the pitch—it comes with the territory.

Wenger isn't a perfect manager, but he has built a phenomenal reputation for working with young talent, unlocking their full potential. If he's feeling adventurous, Bakkali could be his next big project.

His contract runs out at the end of this season—it would only require a minimal investment to bring him to the Emirates Stadium. If Bakkali is smart, he'll understand there is no better place to hone his skills than Arsenal, a club willing to play young talent deserving of minutes.

The young Belgian isn't a perfect player but is bursting with potential. All he needs is a steady hand to guide him, and with a minimal price tag he could be the perfect January signing for a club always looking for the next big thing.

Follow @ReverschPass