Better Than Walcott & Giroud, Arsenal To Complete Signing Of Barca Target In January

Arsenal have been recently given a boost in their pursuit of Celta Vigo’s striker, Nolito after Barcelona pulled out of the race for the 28 year-old’s signature. Barcelona are short of attacking options following Pedro’s exit and Messi’s 2 months’ injury. However, his age is said to have put off Luis Enrique who will now look for a younger striker.

Nolito was once with the Liga giants between 2008 and 2011, rising through the ranks from the substitute team. He was however considered surplus and let go. He has since seen his stocks increase, netting 13 League goals last season, and returning to haunt his former employers as he helped his team to see off Barcelona 4 goals to 1 earlier on in the League. His goals thus far have seen the Eduardo Berizzo’s side place 2nd on the league table.

The Gunners failed to bring in a striker in the Summer transfer window, leaving them with the duo of Olivier Giroud and Theo Walcott. And Nolito could be on his way to the Emirates come January as Wenger continues to be under pressure following his transfer philosophy and style. Nolito’s arrival would present Arsenal with (better) options upfront.

Just after 7 games in the La Liga, he has created 24 chances and scored 5 goals, compared to the 8 chances’ creation and 5 goals between  Walcott and Giroud. Nolito also made 13 assists and 95 chances last season, and such statistics could give Arsenal a competitive edge as they contest for the EPL this season. They currently place 6th on the table and will be looking at going up the log if they get all 3 points against the Red Devils Sunday evening.