Arsenal appear to be in the market for a creative midfielder this summer, and Sampdoria star Dennis Praet is the latest to be linked, but could he provide the missing link in the middle for the Gunners?
According to claims from Italian news outlet Tuttomercatoweb, the club sent a scout out to Italy as they took a closer look at the Belgian playmaker when he faced Lazio on Sunday.
Aaron Ramsey will join Juventus in the summer, so it comes as no surprise to see Unai Emery lining up possible replacements. However, is Praet really what Arsenal need to compete at the top level once again?
The 24-year-old has often been lauded for his industrious style in Italy, but he has struggled to produce throughout the season so far.
Praet has found the back of the net only twice this term and has contributed with the same total of assists.
The ex-Anderlecht youngster wouldn’t be a particularly costly acquisition for Arsenal, with Tuttomercatoweb’s report indicating that Sampdoria would be willing to sell for €25 million.
Praet has often promised big things but has flattered to deceive, and his final ball has lacked this season. With the midfielder unable to truly produce the goods for his side, doubts over a move to the Emirates should emerge.
Emery will know that if Ramsey is to be adequately replaced this summer, his successor must hit the ground running and have experience of cutting defences open with marauding runs and late moves into the area.
Praet would complement Arsenal’s attacking options well, but it’s tough to see how he reaches the standard that will be desired by the club ahead of next season.
