Darren Bent told the Football Show on Sky Sports (06/01/21 at 11:40 am) that Emi Buendia will do ‘everything’ he can to sign for Arsenal if he is made aware of their interest.
Well, Arsenal are keen on the 24-year-old’s services, with the Independent reporting that the North London club have offered either Joe Willock or Reiss Nelson as part of a potential deal.
Whilst Arsenal are desperate for some creativity in their quest to finish in the European places, those at Norwich are equally keen to keep hold of such a key player in their hunt to return to the promised land.
Bent praised the qualities Buendia has at his feet, but questioned whether a move to Arsenal would be a jump too big for him.
“He has got great quality,” said Bent. “And Arsenal are lacking at the minute. I know Smith-Rowe has stepped in and has been superb the last couple of games.
“But they are missing that creativity and someone who takes up those positions just behind the midfield. And the last time he was in the Premier League, for someone of his quality, he scored one goal and that’s not enough. The seven assists are quite impressive.
“I guess the price will pay a big part in that. If he has any idea that Arsenal are interested then I am pretty sure he is going to do everything he can to get to the football club.
“He has real quality. Arsenal might be a big step up for him. But he should be in the Premier League with the quality he has.”
If Arsenal knocks hard enough on Norwich’s door then the Championship club will have to answer even if they want to pretend that they are not in.
Last season in the Premier League, only Kevin de Bruyne, Jack Grealish and Trent Alexander-Arnold created more chances than Buendia.
That is some feat given that he was injured and dropped to the bench at times and his side also ended up finishing rock-bottom.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
