Football

Arsenal’s two concerns over signing Salzburg midfielder Dominik Szoboszlai


The Hungarian is one of the hottest prospects in European football (Picture: Getty Images)

Arsenal are keen on signing Dominik Szoboszlai, but have a few reservations over the Red Bull Salzburg midfielder’s abilities in certain areas, according to reports.

Mikel Arteta is on the lookout for a creative spark in his Gunners side, who are without a goal from open play in their last seven hours of league action.

The Spaniard wanted to sign Lyon playmaker Houssem Aouar back in the summer, but Arsenal didn’t match the French club’s £55million valuation of their prized asset.

Arteta is keen on bringing in a playmaker (Picture: Getty Images)

Szoboszlai, who has been on fire for Salzburg this season, is another option for the Gunners.

The Hungary international already has five goals and nine assists for the Austrian side this season and his contract includes a release clause of just £23million.

But according to The Athletic, Arsenal have concerns over his ball retention and defensive ability.

The north Londoners are also said to be weighing up whether they should be targeting the 20-year-old or a more experienced player to fill their creative void.

Szoboszlai could prove to be a versatile option for Arteta given his ability to play as the more attacking playmaker in a midfield three and on the left wing.

Speaking to Sky Sport Austria earlier this week, Salzburg sporting director Christoph Freund admitted he expects Szoboszlai to join a big club soon and backed him to thrive at the highest level.

‘Of course you would like to have the player in the club as long as possible,’ he told Sky Sport Austria. ‘On the other hand, it is also healthy if he takes the next step at the right time.

‘Let’s see what happens in winter, but there is a high probability that he will move to a big club. That is definitely a next step in development so that he can tap this potential and this performance with every game.

‘I’m convinced that he can become one of the most interesting midfielders in Europe in the next few years.’


MORE : Michael Owen’s Premier League predictions including Chelsea vs Spurs, Manchester United and Arsenal


MORE : Ray Parlour offers tactical advice to Arsenal record signing Nicolas Pepe

Follow Metro Sport across our social channels, on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram

For more stories like this, check our sport page





READ SOURCE

Leave a Reply

This website uses cookies. By continuing to use this site, you accept our use of cookies.