Arsenal’s Sander Berge pursuit risks dangerous transfer territory

Arsenal Have Sander Berge Bid Rejected by Sheffield United

Hardly the most reliable source in the world, Jeunes Footeux claim Arsenal have ‘made a first offer slightly below €20m’ for the Norwegian, but that falls short of Sheffield United’s demands for closer to €30m.

Temporary boss Paul Heckingbottom has since labelled any bids as ‘paper talk’.

The above report turns to clock back to early mentions of price and has to be taking with a fistful of salt, but there is no denying Arsenal’s keenness for Berge – it’s been widely reported. Stripping back the disappointment of this season, the 23-year-old is an exciting ball-carrying central midfielder with a pleasant balance to his style.

Despite his less than favourable surroundings over the past year and a half, in the previous 365 days he still ranks in the 81st percentile for dribbles completed compared to fellow midfielders across Europe’s top five divisions; while blocks, clearances and aerial duels average out at the 72nd percentile. Sitting in front of the backline but with freedom to progress the play, this is neatly shown with a top 92% standing for passes intercepted and 93% ranking for dribbles leading to a shot.

Naturally, many other areas of his game have been severely hit by the Blades’ plight in the past 12 months. This season they’ve scored a staggering 42 fewer goals than last term.

A player with height, physical stature, a graceful elegance on the ball when in motion and keen defensive awareness, he’d suit most squads in the Premier League.

While talk of €20m being bid needs tempering entirely, the prices above these are the sorts of figures Arsenal should be shying away from. Such sums need parting with on a higher grade of talent, with more comforting spells behind them. Berge is not suddenly going to turn Arsenal into top four contenders.

If they start getting drawn into desperation and upping their offer for someone off the back of a wretched campaign for fitness and form when their budget is tight, they’ll enter dangerous territory.

Berge would add depth and a neat skillset into that area of the pitch – he wouldn’t add goals with just nine in 185 career appearances – but not for what Sheffield United are asking. This is a player who, if for the mooted £12m became available, should be snapped at. He has undoubted ability and space to develop.

Not for the silly asking price put on his head, though. Move on if so.