Alan Smith assesses Arsenal link to Sunderland’s Noah Sadiki amid midfield questions | OneFootball

Alan Smith has weighed in on talk of Arsenal interest in Sunderland midfielder Noah Sadiki, suggesting it would be no surprise if the 21-year-old attracted major suitors this summer.

Speaking to Sunderland Echo, Smith said: “Arsenal might look to strengthen in midfield. Zubimendi’s had some problems there. It’s been his first season, played a lot of football. Sadiki is a different type of player, more aggressive.”

“He’s only 21, so he’s a real prospect. Great energy, gets about the pitch, gets his foot in. And I think tactically, he’s quite switched on. So, he’ll be piquing the interest of some of the bigger clubs. As for whether Arsenal will be looking in that area, perhaps. But, he’s had a really good season for his first season.”

The midfielder has already been linked with Manchester United and Chelsea, and reports last week suggested Arsenal are also monitoring him.

Sadiki joined Sunderland last year from Union Saint-Gilloise for an initial £15 million and has made 30 appearances across all competitions.

Smith did not predict an Arsenal move, noting only that the club might address midfield and that Sadiki’s energetic, combative profile has stood out in his debut campaign.

Source: Sunderland Echo