Arsenal could prioritise a future move for Athletic Club midfielder Oihan Sancet, with the Spaniard impressing with his attacking qualities.
According to Fichajes, Oihan Sancet has landed on Arsenal’s short list of future midfielder targets, as Mikel Arteta was left impressed with his offensive qualities. The Gunners could end up paying a huge fee in the region of €80 million, as Athletic Club will negotiate well to get a good price.
Athletic Club are known to get the best value for their players, and that might be the case with Oihan Sancet. The midfielder has been tremendous under Ernesto Valverde, which has continued to attract the attention of some top clubs, mostly from the Premier League.
Newcastle United were keen in the summer, but they never stood a chance to sign him, given Athletic Club did not want to lose him. Sancet is tied until 2032, which gives the Basque club plenty of leeway in negotiations, which effectively points towards a massive asking price, which the report states at around €80 million.
Arsenal were keen on signing Oihan Sancet at one stage in the summer, but they never really considered the position a priority during the summer. Mikel Arteta did reinforce the midfield with the likes of Martin Zubimendi and Christian Norgaard, while Eberechi Eze arrived from Crystal Palace, who could ideally play in the attacking midfield role.
However, Arteta has eyes on Sancet as a future replacement for the profile of Mikel Merino, as the Gunners boss views the 25-year-old attacker from Athletic Club in the mould of his compatriot. With a price tag of around €80 million or upwards, Arsenal are reportedly prepared to spend wisely on Sancet if they can seize an opportunity in he near future.
Oihan Sancet would suit Arsenal
Arsenal and Arteta view Sancet for his offensive qualities as well as for the ways he can complete their midfield. While Merino’s presence is not seen as a problem, a move for the Athletic Club star will be pursued should the former Real Sociedad man depart next summer.
From a profile standpoint, Oihan Sancet would fit like a hand in a glove at Arsenal, given he has plenty of qualities as well as output in the mould of Arteta’s requirements. Hence, any future move for the Spaniard would make plenty of sense, although the North London club must expect competition from some of their rivals for the 25-year-old attacker.