Report: Arsenal Target Free Transfer for Premier League Striker | OneFootball

Arsenal’s Potential Move for Dominic Calvert-Lewin: A Calculated Gamble?

Arsenal are reportedly eyeing a move for Everton’s Dominic Calvert-Lewin, according to Football Insider. The 27-year-old striker, whose contract expires in the summer, is seen as a potential free transfer option. Once tipped for greatness, Calvert-Lewin has struggled to recapture his 2020/21 form, where he netted 16 Premier League goals. Injuries and inconsistency have since blunted his impact, with his highest return in recent years being seven goals last season.

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Despite this, Arsenal remain interested, likely swayed by his physicality and aerial prowess. With options like Newcastle and AC Milan also monitoring his situation, the Gunners could face competition for his signature. The key question is whether Calvert-Lewin’s attributes align with Arsenal’s tactical needs and ambitions.

Why Arsenal Might Consider Calvert-Lewin

Calvert-Lewin’s appeal lies in his physical dominance, a trait Arsenal’s forward line currently lacks. Gabriel Jesus brings dynamism and technicality, but doesn’t offer the imposing presence Calvert-Lewin could provide. For a side that thrives on width and delivery from players like Bukayo Saka and Oleksandr Zinchenko, a striker adept at holding the ball and finishing aerial chances might add a new dimension.

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Moreover, signing him on a free transfer reduces financial risk. With the cost of a signing-on fee and wages likely to rise, Arsenal may see this as a low-cost gamble worth taking.

Risks Associated with Calvert-Lewin

However, Calvert-Lewin’s injury record raises red flags. Frequent layoffs have hampered his ability to maintain form and consistency. Arsenal, who have been plagued by fitness concerns in recent years, would need to assess whether he can endure the physical demands of a high-pressing system.

Further complicating matters is reported interest from Tottenham, Newcastle, and AC Milan. While Spurs are not confirmed to be preparing an offer, their involvement could drive up the competition.

Is It Calvert-Lewin’s Last Chance?

For the striker, this could indeed represent a pivotal moment in his career. Failure at a big club like Arsenal could close the door on future opportunities at the top level. With 56 Premier League goals under his belt, Calvert-Lewin should be entering his prime years, but time is running out for him to prove he belongs on the big stage.

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Our View – EPL Index Analysis

Pursuing Calvert-Lewin feels like a gamble the club doesn’t need to take. While his aerial ability and physicality are tempting, there’s no guarantee he’ll thrive in Arsenal’s system. The Gunners are in a strong position, with Champions League qualification on the horizon. Do they risk disrupting their progress by adding a player with an unreliable fitness record and questionable recent form?

Some fans might point out that Arsenal’s current success under Mikel Arteta has been built on precision recruitment, targeting players who fit the tactical system and possess a high ceiling for development. Calvert-Lewin, while talented, feels more like a stopgap than a solution. Why not invest in a younger, fitter striker who can be moulded into the squad’s DNA?

Additionally, the idea of competing with Tottenham for his signature might raise eyebrows. Does battling Spurs over a player with diminishing returns reflect Arsenal’s ambition, or does it highlight a lack of imagination in the market? With scouts reportedly eyeing talents across Europe, settling for Calvert-Lewin could be viewed as a step backwards.

As always, time will tell. But for now, this potential deal feels more like a roll of the dice than a guaranteed win for the Gunners.