Arsenal identify Juventus’ Paulo Dybala as Martin Odegaard alternative

Should Arsenal Move for Paulo Dybala?

Despite the Argentine being lined up as the fallback in case a deal for Odegaard can’t be completed, they’re entirely different profiles of player. Yes, both add creativity and goal contributions – some more direct than others – but they’re mostly dissimilar.

Dybala is one of a dying breed: a second striker. In essence he is every attacking midfielder without the added defensive and deep-lying duties. Odegaard has been excellent dropping into the right channel for Arsenal where he can pick passes and carry possession. Dybala won’t do that.

That doesn’t mean he isn’t a fantastic talent, however. His form has, admittedly, dropped from the high level it was three years ago, but the arrival of Ronaldo has not helped his case.

The pair have not struck up the partnership Ronaldo’s arrival was supposed to and his goal contributions have dried up from the sublime levels of three seasons ago. This campaign has been a desperately disappointing one for the Argentine, who’s suffered an array of injuries, with the latest knee problem keeping him out of action since mid-January.

When he is in full swing he can be a joy to watch. His role as a blend of centre-forward and second striker grants him license to roam across numerous positions where his agility and elegance on the ball shine through.

If you’re acquiring the Dybala of a few seasons ago (one without endless positive COVID-19 tests and countless injuries) few clubs in Europe would turn their noses away at bringing him in. He still have a good four years in him – if we’re being unkind – but it would mean little in the way of sell on value.

Dependent on fee, which there is no mention of yet, it’s worth Arsenal keeping their ears open, although this would be a deal that comes four years late. He could perform the Alexandre Lacazette role in a different way to the Frenchman: less force and physicality, more flair and panache.

In truth, Dybala would suit Manchester City down to a tee. With an exit inevitable, this will be an interesting saga to come.