Arsenal have real concerns about the defensive work rate of Real Madrid striker Luka Jovic as they consider a move before Monday’s deadline.
That’s according to The Athletic, who claim that Arsenal are considering signing Jovic in the coming days.
Arsenal have missed out on Fiorentina hitman Dusan Vlahovic, with Juventus set to win the race.
Arsenal could now turn to Vlahovic’s Serbian international teammate Jovic, with a loan deal believed to be a possibility before the window slams shut.
Jovic’s link-up play and finishing ability in front of goal are thought to have impressed Arsenal, but the big concern is his defensive work rate.
Mikel Arteta wants to press from the front, and there are seemingly concerns that Jovic may not be the right man for the job.
Jovic, 24, was a hot prospect at Red Star Belgrade but struggled to break through with Benfica, leading to a loan move with Eintracht Frankfurt.
That’s where Jovic really kickstarted his career, smashing 36 goals in 75 games for the Bundesliga side to attract Real Madrid’s interest.
Real paid a huge £53million to bring Jovic to Spain, but he has struggled with the step up of playing for the Spanish giants.
In 47 games for Real, Jovic has scored just three times. Even a loan return to Frankfurt last season hasn’t helped get Jovic on track.
Arsenal could now offer an escape route, but the poor goalscoring return in Spain and those work rate fears may mean Jovic is a last resort.
Arsenal do need to find a new striker, and landing a top target like Dominic Calvert-Lewin, Alexander Isak or Jonathan David will be difficult this month.
Jovic on loan would at least buy Arsenal some time whilst giving Arteta another option up top, ultimately waiting until the summer for a big move.
Once branded ‘magical’ by Lionel Messi, Jovic needs to get his career back on track.
Whether he’s given the chance to do that with Arsenal remains to be seen, with a move seemingly hanging in the balance.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
