Arsenal crave for something special to unlock defences; if it's not this playmaker, I don't know

 

By Danong

In an analysis of the transfer business Arsenal may intend to conduct this summer, the Athletic have revealed what could define Arsenal's recruitment strategy. 

They allege that following Arsenal's defeat to Bayern Munich in the Champions League quarterfinals, the decision-makers at the club felt the team lacked a specific X-factor in attack—something special to unlock defences on the greatest stages.

At first glance the fact that Arsenal at the initially stages of the season lacked a clinical striker suggest that signing one could be the solution. 

However, is this truly the case? I don't think so, given that Arsenal were at their best in attack by the time they played Bayern Munich. 

The clash with the German giants came at a time when Havertz was having a good run that saw him score eight goals and provide seven assists in nine league games.

I believe that "to unlock defences" Arsenal definitely needs another elite playmaker to improve the left side of central midfield. The departure of Xhaka last summer left a void that Arsenal has yet to fill.

So, who should Arsenal consider signing for LCM?

Arsenal needs someone like PSG's Xavi Simons. According to Fabrizio Romano, the Dutch playmaker come winger may be available to go out on loan this summer but he is still uncertain where to go. 

Arsenal must make it their mission to ensure that he selects them as his next destination because he could be the X-factor the team desperately needs.

To break down defences, Arsenal needs a player who is exceptional at dribbling, playing through balls and critical passes, having an eye for a shot, finishing and being nearly faultless.

Footystats reports that last season in the Bundesliga (for RB Leipzig on loan), he made 2.72 critical passes per game which led to major scoring opportunities. 

As the numbers will reveal below, Simons has made a splash in the Dutch league and the Bundesliga over the last two seasons and I believe he will be a success at the Emirates.

2022–23: 34 games, 19 goals, 8 assists.

2023–24: 32 games, 8 goals, 11 assists

Simons will add another very reliable option which will give Arteta plenty of room to maneuver within the available midfielders depending on the type of opposition and the tactics he wants to use 

He is of course well adept at playing on either wing utilising his pace and in this sense Arsenal will be gaining an additional very viable option for him to play as a winger. 

And if his switch to Arsenal proves a success (like say how Odegaard's loan proved to be) he could make the move permanent (Darren Dein is his agent).

Yes, a top striker ought to be signed, but I believe Arsenal should consider bringing Simons on loan; who knows, he could the X-factor this Arsenal team needs to succeed.