Zenit St Petersburg winger Malcom would only improve if he joins Paris Saint-Germain or Premier League challengers Arsenal during the summer transfer window.
At least, so says Igor Semshov, the former Zenit and Russia ace who – like many others in the country – have been enthralled by Malcom’s mesmerising talents since he arrived in the picturesque surrounds of the so-called ‘Venice of the North’ from Barcelona to the tune of £35 million.
Malcom has scored 25 goals while setting up nine more for the runaway leaders. Form that has sparked interest from PSG; Malcom confirming interest from the Ligue 1 champions following the January transfer window.
Not to mention those links with Arsenal.
As far as Semshov is concerned, there would be nothing to lose for the 26-year-old if he finds himself returning to a major European league following that ill-fated stint at Camp Nou.
Malcom is a more mature, confident, and consistent footballer these days.
Arsenal reportedly like Zenit St Petersburg star Malcom
“Malcolm is a top player for our league, and for European clubs like PSG or Arsenal,” Semshov tells MetaRatings.
“After all, he played for Barcelona. I think that Malcolm will not get lost in Europe. He will only improve. Here (in Russia), he feels stronger than others, even when playing at 70 or 80 per cent.
“It’s hard for Malcolm to improve here. Moving to Europe will be a plus for his career.”
The prolific Brazilian, who made his name in French football with a flurry of explosive finishes at Bordeaux, is reportedly one of a number of exciting attackers on Arsenal’s summer wishlist. Moussa Diaby, Gabri Veiga and Ansu Fati are allegedly on the Gunners’ radar too.
There is also Crystal Palace’s Wilf Zaha. If Mikel Arteta and Edu Gasper opt for a more experienced, proven Premier League option.
Malcom’s agent played down reports of an imminent departure earlier this week. But with the summer window weeks away, Luis Fernando Garcia will be a busy man between now and September.
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