Arsenal legend Paul Merson has suggested that the Gunners should divert their attention from Jamie Vardy and move for Everton’s Romelu Lukaku instead, according to reports in Talksport.
After Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger confirmed that Vardy will remain at the King Power Stadium next term. Merson feels that Vardy is unlikely to move and sounded quite puzzled on the Englishman’s decision to snub a club like Arsenal. He said:
“If Arsenal come calling for you, and you don’t come in the first 24 hours then you aren’t signing”, Merson said speaking on Alan Brazil Sports Breakfast show
“I mean, you are talking about one of the biggest clubs in the world. Everybody wants to play for Arsenal.”
Having completed the signing of Granit Xhaka from Borussia Monchengladbach, Wenger is reportedly looking to land two more players.
Lukaku, 23, who scored a brace for Belgium against the Republic of Ireland in their second group game of Euro 2016, has been linked with a move away from the Goodison Park Stadium this summer.
Merson feels the Belgium international will be a welcome addition to the Gunners, providing the fee is right. He added:
“I think he’s a bit different, a bit stronger up front which would help Arsenal,” he added.
“I can see why Chelsea let him go; he was one of them that needed the ball over the top. But he was a young kid and I think he’s learnt his trade now.
“It just depends how much he is.”
Lukaku has repeatedly discussed he is willing to depart from the Goodison club this summer after spending two years as a key member of their squad. The 23-year-old signed in 2014 from Chelsea after a successful season loan spell at Everton.
His performance with Everton has been impressive as he scored 18 times in the Premier League last season, his dazzling footwork has drawn the attention of European clubs with the reports indicating that Manchester United, Chelsea, and PSG are all keen in signing him.
Since the North Londoners will be without Danny Welbeck for the majority of next season due to injury and Olivier Giroud’s failure to be consistent, Wenger should rather sign another striker in order to have a potent attack next season.
I personally think Merson had said it all, as Lukaku is such player that can easily fit in into the Gunners team and also has vast experience in the Primer League.
