Arsenal: 3 cheap midfielders to target in January

2. Todd Cantwell – PSG

Todd Cantwell was impressive a couple of seasons ago with Norwich fighting for survival in the league. Along with Emi Buendia, his name was on everyone’s lips as established sides discussed who they might get on the cheap when Norwich went down. Liverpool in particular were heavily linked.

While it was unsurprising that the Canaries went down, it is surprising that Cantwell is still there.

He seems to have fallen out of favor with Daniel Farke. Although the club is now working under Dean Smith, he still can’t find game time. Injuries and purported illness have played a role in his drop down the pecking order. Yet regardless of the exact reason, speculation about his future with the club has increased.

Still only 23, the midfielder would certainly be a gamble. Primarily because he’s often found playing in more advanced positions or out wide. A natural central midfielder, he is not. However, he has operated in those areas before and his fleet-footedness and vision mean he has the potential to develop into a No. 8 long-term.

Out of contract in the summer, albeit with an optional 12 month extension on his deal, Norwich are said to be looking for around £15m. Turning 24 years old in February, there is still a lot to come from Cantwell.

Not a top drawer player by any means he also may not have the pedigree of a title challenger. Yet. However, as an inexpensive signing that could come straight in and improve the mobility of the midfield with the addition of goals assists, he could work. There would need to be some bedding in time and tactical work on a player who struggles with that side of the game, but when on song he is a hugely talented and versatile option.

Wijnaldum wasn’t a world beater at Newcastle but become an integral cog for an astonishing Liverpool side. Maybe it’s time for Arsenal to roll the dice on midfielders already adapted to the league.

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