Five things Arsenal fans need to know about £15million target
Lyon ace Nabil Fekir has been one of the standout performers in Ligue 1 this season. The young Frenchman has bagged an impressive 12 goals and contributed 9 assists in 30 league appearances this season, setting off a transfer frenzy for his signature.
Arsenal are said to be the main admirers of Fekir, with the player and the player’s dad both confirming the player’s admiration and respect for Wenger and the club. It is yet to be seen whether Arsenal’s interest in the player is firm, with the attacking midfield position already heavily congested.
For those who may be unfamiliar with the player, have a look at five things you need to know about Arsenal’s mooted target.
Fekir is primarily an attacking midfielder, but is comfortable playing anywhere in the centre of the park. He reminds me a bit of Cazorla with his combination of graft and gloss in the middle of the park. Should he join, he could sit behind the striker in the advanced play maker role, or he could sit next to Coquelin in front of the back line, he is that well rounded.
Fekir had been capped for various France youth sides, but finally got a senior call up earlier this year. The midfield ace was easily the best player on the pitch in France’s win against Denmark, combining well with Giroud and and Lyon teammates Lacazette and Jallet. He has surely given French coach Didier Deschamps something to think about ahead of Euro 16.
For those who haven’t seen him play, Fekir is a supremely gifted footballer. Pacey and skillful in possession, he is a nightmare to have charging towards you. He loves to run at defenders and create something of the dribble, and is extremely dangerous in and around the area.
Fekir also has superlative vision to pick out runners. His 9 assists this season is actually underwhelming considering what he is capable of. He would thrive in our side as he is already an advocate of the pass and move combination play.
If 9 assists is underwhelming, his 12 goals from midfield are impressive. Remember that skill and pace I was telling you about? He uses them to great effect in and around the area, banging in the goals for his side. Left foot, right foot, no matter. This lad can score at will if you let him, and has the potential to be one of the world’s next great goalscoring midfielders.