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Arsenal are in dire need of strengthening their attacking lines this summer, particularly if Alexis Sanchez decides to call time on his spell in North London.
The Chilean ace has excelled when playing in a central role for the Gunners this season and has also impressed when playing in his traditional position out wide. However, he’s entered the final 18 months of his contract and there seems to be little progress in talks of a renewal.
With Arsenal slipping out of the top-four in recent weeks and being torn apart by Bayern Munich in the Champions League, the Gunners risk an exodus this summer and Alexis could well be the first man out of the door.
Replacing a player of Alexis’ calibre would certainly not be easy but Arsenal may have the right opportunity handed to them on a plate, as Belgian outlet HLN report Napoli ace Dries Mertens will shun the advances of Inter Milan to move to the Premier League.
Like Alexis, Mertens has less than 18 months remaining on his deal in Naples and has been involved in a long running stand-off with the Stadio San Paolo outfit- which could lead his services to become available during the summer transfer window.
Mertens has netted a sensational 19 goals in 25 appearances this season and any availability will likely lead to a wealth of interest- and Arsenal need to make sure they’re one of the sides pushing for his signature.
Should Alexis leave, Arsenal would have the funds to complete a deal for Mertens and his contract situation means he could be available for a cheaper price than many would expect.
Turning 30 this summer, Mertens knows time is running out for him to make an impression in the Premier League and it would give Arsenal time to find a long-term recruit in the attacking areas; potentially Monaco ace Kylian Mbappe, as the French side have made it clear they don’t intend to sell the 18-year-old this summer.
If Arsenal want a big name to replace Alexis, Mertens could certainly be that man and the fact he can play centrally or out wide means he can match Alexis’ versatility and it would allow Arsenal to utilise a wealth of different tactics.
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