Arteta ‘explains’ reason for Facundo Torres pursuit amid Arsenal transfer discussions
It’s easy to say that Mikel Arteta’s squad has had a successful start to the current campaign, as they now sit atop the Premier League standings and are vying for the top spot in Group A of the Europa League.
Nonetheless, as hope increases, so does skepticism regarding the Gunners’ depth.
Arsenal appeared certain to finish in the top four last season and were one victory away from doing so, but injuries and a lack of firepower led to a decline in quality at the crucial moment.
It’s a situation that could have been avoided if the club had explored the winter market, but that option was not pursued, and that decision had severe repercussions.
A year from now, Arsenal may confront a similar situation, but under different circumstances.
The firepower has been added and the general depth is enhanced, but the question remains the same – will it be enough to get the job done?
Thomas Partey, Mohamed Elneny, Oleksandr Zinchenko and Emile Smith Rowe have all picked up knocks already this season, with the latter three continuing on the sidelines owing to long-term or repeating injuries.
In addition to the absentees, there is a tremendously rigorous fixture schedule to contend with, potentially leaving Arteta and technical director Edu with no choice but to reinforce the squad in order to avoid a repeat of what happened just a few months ago.
The flank, in particular, remains an obvious area of concern after Bukayo Saka hobbled off the pitch in the first half against Nottingham Forest on Sunday, but it appears the England international could finally get some much-needed backup.
That’s because rumors have arisen indicating that Arsenal are due to conduct negotiations with the agents of Orlando City and Uruguay winger Facundo Torres regarding a potential move in January.
The 22-year-old has caught the attention after scoring nine goals and setting up a further eight in 33 league outings this season, while also finding the net four times in six cup games.
On top of boasting great talent and promise, Torres has plenty of adaptability which Arteta generally looks for in a player. In fact, the Spaniard has previously hinted as to why the MLS star could be the right answer to address Arsenal’s depth worries.
Speaking about the recruitment of Fabio Vieira in the summer, Arteta revealed why he decided to pursue the midfielder, highlighting his ability to play everywhere across the front three and behind the striker.
“We were looking for players that could play in three positions in the frontline and in the attacking midfielder positions,” Arteta said.
Interestingly, these are qualities that can also be associated with Torres, as the player himself told The Athletic in March. “I feel comfortable playing any position in the attack, that’s how I played in Uruguay,” said Torres.
“I’d start as a left-sided winger, but I’d move all over the field. I’d be on the right, in the middle and back to the left. I’m a player who feels comfortable in a free role versus having a fixed position. More than anything, I’m an attacking winger, but I can also play in the middle, behind the striker, as a No. 10. I just really like playing freely.”
Arteta ‘explains’ reason for Facundo Torres pursuit amid Arsenal transfer discussions
