Arsenal’s pursuit to revamp their attacking line-up could take an intriguing turn with the potential acquisition of Udinese’s Lorenzo Lucca. The imposing striker, standing at a towering 6ft 6ins, has emerged as the latest name linked to the North London club, presenting manager Mikel Arteta with a dual solution to his tactical challenges.
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With Arsenal’s summer transfer plans aiming high, the likes of Newcastle’s Alexander Isak and Nico Williams from Athletic Club have long been part of Arteta’s wishlist. However, financial constraints pose a significant hurdle, with Isak’s substantial transfer fee and Williams’s wage demands threatening to eclipse Arsenal’s budget.
Enter Lucca, a promising 24-year-old Italian forward currently making waves in Serie A following his loan stint at Udinese from Ajax. Registering an impressive 10 goals in 28 appearances, Lucca’s performances have sparked interest from other top clubs including Liverpool, Nottingham Forest, and AC Milan. Moreover, reports from Italy suggest Lucca could be available for a fee as modest as £25 million.
Lucca’s recent form has earned him a call-up to the Italian national squad, albeit with limited playing time due to stiff competition. Yet, his physical prowess as a striker distinctly sets him apart from Arsenal’s other targets. While Isak and Benjamin Sesko possess height, Lucca’s exceptional aerial ability could be pivotal in unlocking defences.
Should Arsenal secure Lucca’s services, it could revitalise key players within the squad. Bukayo Saka’s crossing ability would find a perfect recipient, potentially increasing his assist tally. Simultaneously, Martin Ødegaard, who has seen a dip in form this season, could exploit Lucca’s presence, rekindling his creative flair evident since his £30 million move from Real Madrid.
Ben White’s contributions from the right flank could also be galvanised. Despite deputising effectively at right-back, White’s overlapping runs have been missed, with both he and Saka sidelined by injuries. Jurrien Timber’s cover in his absence has been admirable, but Arteta might revert to White and Saka up the right, aiming to double White’s career tally of 11 assists for Arsenal in a significantly shorter timeframe, especially with Lucca as the target man.
In conclusion, should Arsenal pursue Lucca, it could well prove a masterstroke. Aligning such a towering figure up front with their current creative options could see Arsenal overcome their attacking dilemmas and avoid an £80 million gamble elsewhere.
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