Arsenal have decisions to make on both Alexandre Lacazette and Eddie Nketiah this summer, with the strikers set to enter the final years of their contracts.
It’s conceivable that either or both of them could end up leaving, and Mikel Arteta may feel that the time is right to bring in a striker of his own to continue his project.
Given that Arsenal have been known for crossing the ball more under Arteta, a more physical centre forward could be on the radar – and Duvan Zapata may well fancy the move.
The Colombian hitman has been outstanding for Atalanta, smashing 61 goals in 119 games for the Serie A side having arrived back in 2018.
Zapata turned 30 on Thursday, meaning he isn’t exactly a young up-and-comer with great resale potential, but he does seem to love Arsenal.
Speaking to Gazzetta Dello Sport, Zapata has indicated that he grew up supporting Arsenal and would watch their games on TV over in Colombia, and wouldn’t rule out heading to the Premier League one day.
“In football, never say never,” said Zapata. “As a boy in Colombia, the English league was the most broadcast. I supported Arsenal and woke up early on the weekend to watch the games on TV,” he added.
This is a tough one. Zapata would bring something different to Arsenal’s attack, and it’s hard to ignore that stunning goalscoring record for Atalanta.
Yet if Arsenal are to let Lacazette go, it needs to be for the next generation, not a striker entering the Premier League in his 30’s, meaning Zapata may not get his dream move to North London at all.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
