Arsenal step up Emi Buendia summer transfer pursuit

Arsenal to Firm Up Interest With Buendia Bid

Arteta remains hopeful that he can bring Odegaard back to north London next season, but that deal could surely only be a loan if the pursuit of Buendia is to be ‘firmed up’.

The reason for that is Norwich will demand around £40m for the 24-year-old, who still has three years on his deal and has just recently been called up by the Argentinian national team. Furthermore, being named the Championship’s Player of the Season, his ever-rising stock puts Norwich is a strong position.

Arsenal believe that Buendia is someone who can make a real difference to their side next season, and while unconfirmed, Arteta make look to use him more centrally as a right-sided No. 8. He’s risen to the top of the playmaker wishlist.

If there was any doubt that his talent may fade off after one or two impressive seasons then those notions have been dispelled by his outstanding statistics in 2020/21: he created more big chances than anyone in the Championship, completed more through balls and completed more passes in the final third.

It’s no wonder Arsenal are keen. They’ve been watching him extensively over his three seasons in England and technical director Edu has began taking the steps to consolidate that interest. Arsenal may hold an edge, too, as Buendia is keen on joining the club this summer.

"“Of course if one of the best clubs in the world wants Emi as a starter and makes an unbelievable offer then it could be a realistic solution for all parties,” Farke said of Buendia. “If there is a club who want to put some crazy offers out then maybe you use this to help the club in the future, but as a head coach my first thought is to work further on with our key players.”"

£40m is a hefty figure for Arsenal to part with, one that needs raising through player sales. Speculation that Willian is ‘expected’ to leave will free up wages and space in the forward line, while midfielders Dani Ceballos, Lucas Torreira and Matteo Guendouzi are all certainties to depart. Joe Willock has never been more valuable, and Arsenal are set for a substantial cash injection should they opt to sell him.

In all other positions there will be departures, but Arsenal will be desperate to get Buendia’s signing over the line as quick as possible to avoid interest mounting elsewhere. In the case of the owners, this is where they need to show their commitment by providing the cash in advance of sales. Easier said than done, of course, but Buendia is a magnificent talent. Such players don’t come about too often.

He has goals, pace, trickery, stamina, vision and guile. £40m wouldn’t go to waste even if it’s a heck of a lot for a Championship player.