Arsenal
Premier League • England
Mikel Arteta switches sights to solve midfield conundrum, as Cazorla – Silva hybrid now on Arsenal radar
Arsenal are reportedly keen to sign Paris Saint-Germain midfielder Carlos Soler in January as Mikel Arteta looks to bolster his ranks for a title challenge.
The Gunners have enjoyed a superb first part of the season and entered the World Cup break top of the table. Not even the most die-hard Arsenal fans would have expected their heroes to be five points clear of Manchester City. But that is the reality thanks to 12 wins and a draw from 14 top-flight games.
Most pundits tipped City to secure a third consecutive Premier League title in 2022-2023. And Pep Guardiola’s charges are still favourites to lift the trophy next May.
However, there is now an air of confidence at the Emirates that they might be able to push them all the way.
Arteta has been tipped to strengthen in the new year.
Midfield is one area of the pitch where the Spaniard could do with some help. And many schemers have been linked.
The latest is 25-year-old Soler, who joined PSG from Valencia on September 1 this year.
The Spain international had impressed with the LaLiga outfit, enjoying 226 outings in just over six seasons at Mestalla.
But, after netting 36 goals for Los Che, he moved to Paris for around €18m.
Things have not worked out as planned for the Spaniard. He has struggled for game time and started just four times in the league.
The man with 13 La Roja caps has made seven appearances in total, scoring twice. But it is clearly a frustrating situation for the player.
And, looking to take advantage of the situation, Arsenal are said to be keen, according to France Bleu Paris.
Soler likened to top duo
Arsenal have the basis of an exciting young side. And, having been under pressure early in his managerial career in north London, Arteta has now been roundly praised for his work.
It remains to be seen if they can claim their first Premier League title since 2003-2004.
Winter recruitment may well be key, with rumours the manager will be given funds to spend.
Soler seems to be on the radar and has a decent reputation despite a lack of action at Parc des Princes.
He has been compared to former Gunner Santi Cazorla and City legend David Silva. Both are highly-skilled footballers who make the game look easy from midfield.
And if Soler goes on to have the career of either of the aforementioned stars, he will have done well.
Cazorla spent six seasons at the Emirates, making 180 appearances in all competitions and scoring 29 goals.
Injury blighted his latter years at the club but the Spaniard will always be remembered fondly by the fans.
There has been no word on Soler’s price tag or whether Arsenal would prefer a loan deal. And it may be that PSG are unwilling to sell a player they only recruited three months ago.
A temporary switch away from the Ligue 1 outfit might suit all parties and give Arteta some assistance in midfield.
He is currently at the World Cup with Spain and bagged the seventh goal as Luis Enrique’s side beat Costa Rica 7-0.
It is the perfect platform for the Valencia-born ace to showcase his skills. But it seems as though Arsenal already know just how good he is.