Arsenal now have an opportunity to go back in for one of their January transfer targets as his future is now uncertain.
Arsenal may well seek to strengthen in the wide areas in this summer transfer window.
Bukayo Saka would certainly benefit from some additional competition and support. The Hale End academy graduate starts week in, week out for the Gunners, and is the only left-footed right-winger in Mikel Arteta’s squad, meaning only he, as things stand, can function in that particular tactical role.
Arsenal could go back in for Federico Chiesa
Arteta could now reignite his interest in Federico Chiesa, who now faces an uncertain future at Juventus.
The Gunners held an interest in the “world-class” winger in late 2023, head of the January transfer window, though ultimately no offer was forthcoming. The North London club may well have been keeping tabs on the 26-year-old since then though.
According to transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano, Chiesa is now set to become available this summer. Reporting on X, he claimed that the attacker’s agent, Fali Ramadani, will soon be in Italy to: “discuss all options for winger’s future.”
The 46-cap Italy international’s current contract is set to expire next summer, and Juventus are willing to let him go if an acceptable offer for his services is made.
Chiesa enjoyed a fine campaign last time out, striking 9 times in 33 Serie A outings, and also chipping in with 3 assists.
What Federico Chiesa could bring to Arsenal
Comfortable playing on either flank, Chiesa could provide cover and competition for Saka and also the likes of Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard. Whilst he is naturally right-footed, he is strong on either foot. He can also play centrally, and often did for Juventus last season, meaning he may well represent an alternative option in the left-eight role at the Emirates Stadium.
Chiesa would be an exciting addition to Arteta’s ranks, and the Spanish coach is known to already be an admirer of the player. If a fair deal can be struck with Juventus, then Chiesa would solve some key issues in this Arsenal squad. However, if the Gunners are set on finding a rotation option for Saka, then Arteta may well have his heart set on bringing in a left-footer.
Of course, it could also be the case that Chiesa’s agent is simply aiming to secure his client a better deal with his current club ahead of his upcoming talks with Juventus.