Arsenal have picked a big-name target from AC Milan to boost their attack in the next transfer window. The North London club is keen on former Chelsea winger Christian Pulisic. His recent form has been so strong that some fans are comparing his rise to Mohamed Salah. If the deal goes through, it could prove a brilliant move for the Gunners.
Why Christian Pulisic is tipped to be the next Salah
Recent reports have emerged which suggest Arsenal have tracked the winger for a long time as they look to add more depth to their squad. The link between Christian Pulisic and Mohamed Salah comes from Chelsea’s habit of letting young players leave before they hit their peak. In the past, stars like Salah and Kevin De Bruyne left West London and later became world-class players elsewhere in the Premier League. If the American follows a similar path, the move could come back to haunt Chelsea. The club suffered a huge financial loss when they sold him in 2023.
However, AC Milan are in a strong position in any talks because of his contract. He signed a four-year deal in 2023 that runs until June 2027. The Italian club also holds an option to extend it by one more year, which helps protect his value. Reports add that Milan do not want to lose one of their key players, particularly if they qualify for the Champions League next season. They would demand between €70 million and €80 million to even consider a sale this summer.
Reports also say that Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester United are keen on the attacker. The player is reportedly open to a return to England, where he previously won the Champions League, and would aim to win more trophies with another English football club.
The career revival of Christian Pulisic and his value to the Gunners
Many fans saw the American as a flop in his final years at Chelsea. He scored 26 goals in 145 games, but constant minor injuries and a lack of consistency hurt his progress.
He eventually joined AC Milan in a deal worth approximately €22 million. Since that move, he has experienced a stunning resurgence in Italy. In the current season alone, he has already registered 11 goals and 8 assists in just 28 appearances. He also scored the club’s 5000th league goal and became the first American to score in three of Europe’s top five leagues.
This level of productivity is why analysts compare his potential return to the journey of Salah. The Egyptian winger left Chelsea to join Roma, where he grew as a player and gained valuable experience. He later returned to the Premier League with Liverpool. After coming back, he became a world-class star. Today, he is seen as one of the greatest players of his generation.
Reports say that experts believe the American has grown a lot and can now carry the offensive load for a top team. “They gained confidence, came back to the Premier League, and then it was game over, history was written,” – Former Man United and US national goalkeeperTim Howard noted when discussing how players like Salah improved after leaving Chelsea.
If the move materializes, Mikel Arteta would gain a versatile forward who can play across the entire front line. His eye for goal and big-game experience would add real value to the squad. He has also proved he can stay fit for a full season, drive quick attacks, and create many chances from the right wing.
What’s next for the American International?
The Gunners are are chasing their first premier league since 2004. As the race keeps getting tighter, Mikel Arteta would value proven winners in his squad, and Pulisic seems to be the perfect candidate for this role. It remains to be seen whether the former Blues winger goes down Salah’s route or not.
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