Arsenal Transfer News: Latest on Gonzalo Higuain, Karim Benzema, Pedro Rumours
According to the latest rumours, Arsenal are seeking to strengthen up front and have identified some world-class targets to pursue this summer.
According to Sportmediaset, via Metro, the Gunners could secure Gonzalo Higuain's signature for £42.7 million.
Higuain is undergoing a difficult time after his high-profile penalty miss in the Copa America final, but as beIN Sports commentator Matteo Bonetti notes, the Argentinian remains a top centre-forward who still has much to give:
The 27-year-old scored 28 goals and made 10 assists in all competitions last season, demonstrating his lethal touch in front of goal and his ability to create for Arsenal's other attackers.
More prolific and dynamic than Olivier Giroud, Higuain could dovetail well with the Frenchman, whose power in the air and intricate build-up play provide a nice contrast with the Argentinian's clever movement in the box.
The fee would appear somewhat steep even for a player of Higuain's ability, however, so unless Arsenal can negotiate a lower price, a move for the Napoli forward is speculative.
Arsenal Target Karim Benzema
According to AS, via Colin Harvey of the Daily Star, Arsenal are hoping to sign Karim Benzema in a £17.8 million deal, though "it is unclear at the moment how much Real are demanding."
The report indicates that Benzema could be unsettled, as Cristiano Ronaldo looks set to occupy Benzema's central role next season.
The Frenchman scored 22 goals and made 11 assists last season and has failed to reach at least 20 goals only once since the 2007-08 season, making him exactly the kind of striker Arsenal need to launch a title challenge.
The forward is often surprisingly underrated by many fans, but the Guardian's Sid Lowe is well aware of the 27-year-old's talents:
Benzema's work rate, clinical finishing and ability to create chances for his team-mates would ensure he thrives at Arsenal.
Real would likely want closer to £25 million for Benzema's services, but even at that price the forward should be considered a must-purchase.
Could Pedro Leave Barcelona?
Per James Orr of the Independent, "Arsenal have made initial contact with Pedro's representatives over a move."
The forward spoke in March about being unhappy at playing second fiddle to Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez and Neymar. According to Stefan Coerts of Goal.com, he told beIN Sports:
"I am going through a difficult period. It is clear that I am having a tough time to find a place in the team at the moment. I have had few chances to play this season.
I will consider my options in the summer and will then talk with the club to discuss my future.
"
The Spaniard's playing time was restricted last season thanks to the rampant goalscoring exploits of Barca's first-choice attacking trio, but he still managed to score 11 goals and make nine assists.
Though Pedro is not a natural out-and-out centre-forward, his intelligent running, neat finishing and wonderful technique make him an upgrade on the likes of Danny Welbeck and Theo Walcott.
However, the 27-year-old signed a contract extension in June. With Barcelona unable to field any new recruits until January, Luis Enrique will be reluctant to let such a reliable and talented player go lest his stars suffer injury or suspension.
Pedro's talents ensure he would shine for Arsenal but it's highly unlikely that he'll move until next year.
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