Would Rashford and Calvert-Lewis fit in?
FAN’S VIEW: My interest was peaked by reports that Arsenal are keen to sign Marcus Rashford and have a pre-contract deal with Dominic Calvert-Lewin, writes DAVE SEAGER.
I have seen Arsenal fans write both off, suggesting Rashford has lost his mojo and that Calvert-Lewin will never be the same following his injuries.
Just imagine if Arsene Wenger had taken that attitude with Nwankwo Kanu, Marc Overmars, Patrick Vieira or even Dennis Bergkamp? All signings that were deemed to be failures or injury-prone prior to their arrival in North London.
The truth is both Rashford and Calvert-Lewin are quality players, who for differing reasons have slightly lost their way.
Rashford is in need of a new challenge and a manager who believes in him, while Calvert-Lewin needs to avoid injuries and play in a team that isn’t struggling at the foot of the table.
I think the question should be more about how Mikel Arteta wants to play and set up his team next season.
If the plan is to play as we are at present, then a younger, mobile central striker like Calvert-Lewin seems the obvious fit.
The Everton star has the hold up play and ability to link between midfield and attack, while also adding pace, an aerial threat and clinical finishing.
Rashford brings both goal and assists, but his wages may prove to be a stumbling block.
I very much doubt Edu or Arteta would bring in a player who, based on his current salary which is said to be around £200,000-a-week, would instantly become Arsenal’s top earner.
READ DAVE SEAGER’S FULL ANALYSIS HERE