European champions Real Madrid have signed 18-year-old Sergio Diaz from Primera Division Paraguaya champions Cerro Porteno for 5 million according to recent reports. However, the striker has publicly expressed that his dream move would be to the Emirates.
In an interview with RGS Radio, Diaz was quoted as saying,
“My dream is to play for Arsenal, which I’ve had since I was a child.”
The striker is yet to make his international debut but has represented Paraguay at all youth levels, making his debut for the Under-23 side earlier this year.
Diaz, who has been dubbed “the new Sergio Aguero” because of his diminutive stature and exceptional balance, is expected to play with the reserves at Real Madrid Castilla. There are also reports that he might be loaned out to a top division club in Europe, with AS Roma in Serie A considered a possible destination.
The player himself as hinted that he expects to be out on loan next season in the interview with RGS Radio. “At the moment it is still very quiet. I do not know when I will leave for Italy but, in essence, my move to Roma has been confirmed.”, said Diaz whose contract with Real Madrid is for six years.
Diaz debuted in the Paraguayan top flight at the age of 15 two seasons ago and has scored 15 goals in 62 appearances for Cerro Porteno since then. Diaz was handed the No.10 jersey in the next season as Porteno won the 12-team league in 2015.
While it remains to be seen whether Diaz has what it takes to shine in Europe’s top leagues, preliminary scouting suggests that youngster brings an explosive mix of dribbling and pace.
Diaz is also capable of linking up with his teammates to create goals by drawing multiple defenders off their positions and is a constant threat in the box.
Very few South American players have cemented starting places under Arsene Wenger, with Alexis Sanchez being one of the most notable exceptions.
Diaz certainly looks like he has the drive to carry the ball forward and make things happen in the opposition final third much like the Chilean.
