Arsenal: Why Hakan Calhanoglu transfer should be avoided

Still without the summer transfer window officially opening, Arsenal are whittling their way down their list of targets in the manner nobody wants to see. It’s not because these players have been signed, but because they’re slipping away from the club’s fingers.

Emi Buendia is a done deal and along with Martin Odegaard, they were the two individuals that Arsenal have – at least as far as the reports suggests – been most heavily targeting. Bids were lodged for the Argentine and the club fell short, while despite some internal confidence, any deal for Odegaard looks like a stretch at this stage.

Which is why clubs draw up lists. It’s why you scout numerous players on the basis that you’re first choice options don’t pull through. Rarely ever will a club secure their number one target, as much as managers will claim to have done following a signing.

Rumours are also rumours. Even some links by reputable sources are countered by equally reputable ones the other way. As has been seen with the recent Ruben Neves speculation.

Arsenal interest in transfer of AC Milan’s Hakan Calhanoglu just lazy habits for free agents in summer window

But as the club work their way down in sight of other playmaker options, a few names on the Arsenal summer transfer window bingo card return to the fore. The latest (but also not latest at all) is Hakan Calhanoglu.

News of interest that has seemingly remained since 2015 comes via James Benge. While it’s not sure how high up on the list he is, the forward is considered an option and an alternative to Odegaard should the Gunners fail in their pursuit.

Why would Arsenal be interested in Calhanoglu? Let’s avoid the elephant in the room and look at from a statistical and stylistic point of view.

What is Calhanoglu? Well, he’s an extremely adaptable forward who it feels like has been around for decades but is in fact only 27 years old. Fielded either out on the left wing or in the central attacking slot, his outstanding delivery is among the best in Serie A – and indeed Europe.

AC Milan have seen him rack up 80 goals and assists in 172 outings and if they could (they’re trying), they’d probably keep him on longer. The issue is, however, his contract is up and an agreement over wages can’t be found.

If this were a deal Arteta and co wrapped up, what would be bring?

Continued…