Arsenal Register Interest In This Southampton Star: Can He Solve Arteta’s Problems? | OneFootball

According to Daily Record, Arsenal are in the market for Mohamed Elyounoussi. The Southampton forward has been a rising star for the club, thus drawing interest from a couple of Premier League clubs in the form of Arsenal and Leicester City. Elyounoussi’s current contract at St. Mary’s Stadium expires in 2023, which has tempted both the teams to identify him as a potential cut-price addition to the squad.

Mohamed Elyounoussi’s Rapid Rise To Prominence

Formerly of FC Basel, Mohamed Elyounoussi initially joined Southampton back in 2018 for a fee of €18 million. But after a disappointing first season at the club, he was shipped to Celtic on a two-year loan deal in 2019.

The winger didn’t particularly have a great first season in Scotland, but he was involved in 12 goals in 29 appearances in the Premiership last season before returning to St. Mary’s Stadium in the summer.

Since then, Elyounoussi has enjoyed a prominent role in the Southampton first-team, having already featured in 453 minutes of league action. Although the attacker has only been involved in one goal in the league, his pace and proficiency in counter-attacks have made him a useful asset for Ralph Hasenhuttl.

The 27-year-old’s versatility has been even more helpful, with the player capable of operating anywhere in the final third. As a result, he has emerged as an ideal replacement for Nathan Redmond, who joined Everton in the summer.

NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND – AUGUST 28: Mohamed Elyounoussi of Southampton celebrates after he scores this sides first goal during the Premier League match between Newcastle United and Southampton at St. James Park on August 28, 2021 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)

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Is Elyounoussi A Good Option At Arsenal?

Mohamed Elyounoussi has certainly showcased his quality in the Premier League this season, and his numbers are bound to improve in a better team.

Arsenal themselves require the additional depth in the offensive department, especially with Nicolas Pepe struggling, while Martin Odegaard haven’t had the greatest of starts either since returning to Emirates. Moreover, Alexandre Lacazette is facing an uncertain future at the club, thus accentuating the need for a new attacker.

Elyounoussi, though, might not be a prudent option. Despite the quality he offers to the table, the Norwegian does not have a great deal of experience at the highest level of football and given Arsenal’s poor creative department, it will be a challenge for him to improve on his current numbers at Southampton.

Tactically, the arrival of Elyounoussi could make sense as he can offer competition not just to the wingers but also the centre forwards. But perhaps a lot will depend on how much Southampton ask for his services, as the Gunners certainly cannot spend a fortune on the former Basel winger.