Bournemouth winger Ryan Fraser is not a priority signing for Arsenal this summer, according to reports The Athletic.
The 26-year-old has been one of the best in the league in terms of assists in the last couple of seasons and his performances have caught the eye of many.
Last season the midfielder was particularly impressive as he got 14 assists to go along with 7 goals. He has been one of the best players for Eddie Howe’s men and has shown his quality on a consistent basis.
The Athletic claim that both North London rivals Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur do not consider Fraser to be an important target anymore. One of the reasons for the Gunners to step back from a potential deal is that they had reservations whether the winger would fit into a top club.
It further states that the Emirates club were weighing up a bid last summer but backed out due to the concerns over his introverted personality. Crystal Palace and Watford have registered their interest in the player.
Fraser is out of contract at the end of June, so many clubs are interested in signing him. When asked about Fraser to Arsenal’s links, former Gunner Kevin Campbell said:
“You can get Ryan Fraser on a free transfer, his assists for Bournemouth were double figures last year, I know he suffered injuries but he’s still been having a decent season.
“That’s playing for Bournemouth, when you’re playing for Arsenal, he’s going to get more of the ball in the positions he wants and give more opportunities, because there’s a lot more threats for Arsenal than some of these other teams.
“There’s talk of Willian, I like Willian, there’s still a lot of life left in him. He actually suits what Mikel Arteta wants to do, playing in a three, he’s got pace, he can beat people, he can score goals and we could get him on a free, and he’s experienced.”
Campbell also added that it would be beneficial for the club if they can bring in Willian as well, as the Brazilian winger had also been linked with a move away from Chelsea.
And if the interest in the Scot has been withdrawn, it would be an indication that Arteta has enough belief in his team that has talented young wingers such as Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli.
While Fraser does sound tempting as he would be coming on a free transfer, it would not make sense if he is not going to be given many games. Perhaps Arsenal are looking at strengthening other areas of the pitch now.
