Arsenal: Whatever happened to Luka Jovic?

Arsenal have been linked to a host of attacking talent recently. But one name has flown under the radar who should be heavily considered: Luka Jovic.

In recent weeks, Arsenal have been linked with multiple forwards from around Europe. Most recently, it has been Moussa Dembele of Lyon who has made the headlines. Before him, it was Bayer Leverkusen’s Kevin Volland dominating the press.

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And there has been a continuous rumour that 32-year-old Dries Mertens is being fought over by the top Premier League sides, the Gunners among them. But there is one forward who should take precedence over the others: Luka Jovic.

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There are merits to each of these suggestions, that much is true, but also major drawbacks. Dembele is an exciting prospect, and although he is unproven at the highest level, his talent is undeniable. He will also have a massive price tag to go along with his skill. Volland is incredibly versatile and brings both skill and experience, but his lack of both pace and clinical finishing might lead to ineffective performances in the Premier League.

Mertens is undeniably the most experienced and gifted of these three, but at 32, he has lost a step, and his attitude can often leave a lot to be desired. He would also likely demand exorbitant wages, which Arsenal likely cannot afford — and neither should they want to afford.

But amidst all this, there is one rumour that has not been extensively discussed. If you cast your mind far back, you may remember a purported potential offer from Real Madrid of £40 million and Jovic for Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang. That is quite possibly the best deal I’ve ever heard of.

Jovic has followed a storyline quite prominent in recent years: one incredible season before being scooped up and then ground up by Real Madrid or Barcelona.

Jovic is currently playing third fiddle to an in-form Karim Benzema and a slightly faster Mariano and has found playing opportunities difficult to come by. He is a clinical finisher and proven goalscorer, but his lack of opportunity is wasting his talents, and his form will only worsen longer he sits on the bench.

He has the physical profile, explosive acceleration, and above all skill to be incredibly successful in the Premier League. He will cost, according to reports, a striker the wrong side of 30 who Arsenal need to sell by the summer to recoup any sort of investment and will come with the added bonus of £40 million the club is in desperate need of. The only possible concern is his wages, which are reportedly extortionate. But at 22 (and having only turned 22 last week), he would be a worthwhile investment, no matter the price.

Now there is all the likelihood that this deal was just a rumour, drummed up by the press to create drama where none is necessary. And if that is the case, so be it. But even in that situation, I believe Jovic is a target worth pursuing above the others, both because of what he is now and what he could be.