DONE DEAL: Arsenal finally completes the deal to sign £99million top-class striker who has more experience than Gyokeres
Former striker turned pundit Darren Bent has urged Arsenal to sign Manchester City outcast Jack Grealish.
After moving to the Etihad Stadium from Aston Villa for a huge £100m fee, the 29-year-old helped his side win the treble in the 2022/23 campaign. However, he has been on the periphery in the last two seasons and has been kept out of the Citizens’ squad for the Club World Cup as they are ready to cash-in on him.
The Englishman started only 11 games in the Premier League and Champions League last campaign, scoring twice and registering a solitary assist.
Now, speaking on talkSPORT (via Football Insider), Bent says that Grealish would be a very good option for Arsenal, but not as Gabriel Martinelli’s replacement.
The Brazilian is a talented player but can be inconsistent at times. If he struggles to perform consistently, Grealish could step in as a reliable alternative, which might also help bring out the best in the 24-year-old.
Bent said:
“I’d have him (Grealish) at Arsenal for sure. But not instead of Martinelli. The thing about Martinelli you have to remember is that he blows hot and cold, so Jack will get opportunities to play. If Jack wants to get into the Arsenal team and do well, then Martinelli’s going to have to fight tooth and nail to get back in.”
Grealish to Arsenal
Arsenal took a similar approach last summer and hired Raheem Sterling from Chelsea on a loan deal after the Blues decided that the Englishman was surplus to requirements.
Mikel Arteta knew the player from their time together at the Etihad Stadium, so it was thought that he would be able to bring out the best in him. However, things didn’t turn out that way, while Martinelli and Leandro Trossard were average last term.
So, Arsenal are said to be prioritising upgrading the left flank in this transfer window. Nico Williams was reportedly the primary target, but he is more inclined to join Barcelona, so Arsenal have been forced to explore alternative options.
Grealish previously showcased his qualities in the Premier League but has lost his form completely, and purchasing him might not be the right decision for the North London club.
He is valued at around £24m by Transfermarkt and still has two years left in his current contract with Pep Guardiola’s side.
