Man United star Anthony Martial has secret Arsenal admiration as Ten Hag makes his transfer exit decision
Arsenal could benefit from Manchester United’s transfer decisions as Erik ten Hag’s squad is in need of a new striker.
After terminating Cristiano Ronaldo’s contract in December, United turned to the unexpected Wout Weghhorst.
The Manchester Evening News reports that the Red Devils have definite plans to find a new striker, despite the fact that the Dutch international is not in their long-term plans. In the short term, this is of little concern to Arsenal.
United are eight points behind the leaders, having played one more game than the leaders, and the Gunners’ dramatic 3-2 victory over their historical rivals occurred only two weeks ago.
However, this does not preclude the possibility of significant transfer overlap in the future.
Despite acquiring Leandro Trossard from Brighton in January, Arsenal has been linked with a new forward.
Eddie Nketiah has led the line admirably in the absence of Gabriel Jesus, but the need for an additional No. 9 persists. Jesus, despite being a key offensive player, only scored five goals prior to the World Cup.
Gabriel Martinelli’s impact has been felt elsewhere via creativity and space creation, but he has not scored a first-half goal all season and has not scored in recent weeks.
Arsenal, who have been nearly flawless thus far, have a small hole to fill, but their center forward options may be examined once more.
United may be able to help them out here. According to reports, Anthony Martial is up for sale at Old Trafford as funds and space are created for a new striker.
Despite his lack of playing time, the 27-year-old has contributed to eight goals despite struggling with fitness. As a seasoned Premier League player at this point he could come onto the map for Mikel Arteta.
Additionally, the player has previously expressed his secret admiration for two Arsenal forwards. Speaking in 2018 Martial said:
“I always followed English football. Manchester United because Patrice Evra was there and he comes from the same town as me.
“I followed Arsenal as Thierry Henry was there, also from Les Ulis. For my French heroes, I had Thierry Henry, of course, and then Zinedine Zidane, Zizou. They were the best. I admired strikers, No.10s.
“Another player who I really liked was Nicolas Anelka. He was a really great player, quick with loads of skill.”
It is not uncommon for French players and young forwards to admire Henry’s work, and Martial’s early speed, positioning, and finishing into the far post were reminiscent of Henry.
With a contract expiring in 2024 and the player seemingly on the verge of leaving United, the Gunners are already aware of his status.
Man United star Anthony Martial has secret Arsenal admiration as Ten Hag makes his transfer exit decision
