In an unexpected move to strengthen their attack, Arsenal is eyeing a young winger dubbed "the new Eden Hazard."
The Gunners have been looking for Leeds United forward Raphinha to bolster their flanking options, but the trail appears to have gone cold. The Brazilian has been linked with both Barcelona and Chelsea, with Arsenal reportedly pulling out of the race due to a high asking price.
Serge Gnabry has been mentioned as a possible replacement for Raphinha, but it appears that Gunners manager Mikel Arteta may be looking leftfield in his search for a left-footed right-winger to challenge Bukayo Saka and provide rest for the England man.
Lille winger Edon Zhegrova is on the north Londoners' radar, according to Kosovan journalist Arlind Sadiku (opens in new tab), with Arteta's side having already made an official bid for the star.
This corresponds with the Mail's (opens in new tab) April claim that the winger is on Arsenal's shortlist, having previously been compared favorably to the likes of Lionel Messi for his wand of a left foot and Eden Hazard, whom Arsene Wenger admires.
Zhegrova, who was born in Germany, joined the Ligue 1 club from Basel in January, following in the footsteps of Raphinha and Arsenal record signing Nicolas Pepe. The 23-year-old has made an impression in his short time at Stade Pierre-Mauroy, and with Lille having only paid around £6 million for his services, he could be sold for a sizable profit.
Arsenal recently signed Gabriel Jesus from Manchester City, but despite playing as a right-winger for the champions, the Brazilian has referred to himself as "a No.9" in club media and will most likely play up front, rotating with Eddie Nketiah.
The Gunners' only other options behind Saka are Pepe, who looks set to leave this summer after switching agents, Gabriel Martinelli, and new recruit Marquinhos, a Brazilian youngster who joined this summer.
Transfer market values Zhegrova at around £4.5 million.
More Arsenal news
Gabriel Jesus has finally agreed to join Arsenal, but one former Manchester City player has slammed his former club, calling the transfer "a mistake.
The Gunners don't appear to be done spending after completing the signings of Porto midfielder Fabio Vieira and United States goalkeeper Matt Turner. Jose Mourinho is keen to keep his Roma talisman Tammy Abraham, while Lens star Cheick Doucoure has been linked and Leeds winger Raphinha has been rumoured.
There may still be outgoings. Hector Bellerin is set to leave the club where he made his name, while Kieran Tierney is a surprise target for Manchester City.
blogpay
