Should Arsenal consider going in for Semenyo?

 By Danong

As a squad, Arsenal are arguably as strong as they have ever been. Sporting director Andrea Berta’s debut summer transfer window gifted Mikel Arteta the one thing he had long lacked: genuine squad depth.  

The brilliance of this expanded group has been clear. We have watched Arsenal navigate key injuries without losing momentum, and we have seen them grind out results even when deprived of their most influential players.  

When everyone is fit, Arsenal are already a formidable side. Yet there remains a sense that they could reach an even higher level if they finally secure one elusive deal.  

For several years now, it has been no secret that Arsenal are intent on landing a top winger. Despite links to Premier League talents such as Nico Williams and Rodrygo, the club has struggled to secure this transfer. The prevailing feeling is that if Arsenal can clinch this signing, they may well unlock their absolute best.  

Semenyo: An Opportunity, But Not the Answer

The race to become Arsenal’s marquee left wing signing appears to be narrowing to two names: Juventus’ Kenan Yildiz and Bournemouth’s Antoine Semenyo.  

Semenyo has emerged as an opportunistic target. Not long ago, reports suggested the Premier League winger could be available for around £65 million.

His technical ability, ambipedal nature—able to strike cleanly with either foot and his Premier League experience make him a tempting option.  

However, as appealing as he may be, is Semenyo truly what Arsenal need?

The Gunners require an “heir” to Leandro Trossard, someone capable of unlocking compact defensive blocks such as those deployed by Wolverhampton Wanderers. They need a winger with close control and the elite ability to fashion shots in tight spaces, qualities Semenyo does not consistently provide.  

Yes, Semenyo can slice through opponents like a hot knife through butter in transition, but he lacks the nuanced tools to threaten compact defences on a regular basis. In truth, what he offers is not dissimilar to Gabriel Martinelli or Noni Madueke on their better days.

Yildiz: The Ideal Successor to Trossard

If Arsenal are wise, their focus should shift towards Yildiz. The Juventus star possesses the attributes required to dismantle compact blocks: superior close control, technical dribbling, and the ability to manipulate tight spaces with composure.  

Moreover, Yildiz is no slouch in transition. While Semenyo’s athleticism gives him the edge in open play, Yildiz balances his transitional threat with creativity and vision. Crucially, he combines ball-striking and finishing prowess with top-level playmaking, making him a more complete option.  

All that said, it is worth noting that Semenyo would still be a decent signing were Arsenal to win his red‑hot transfer race. Even so, the Ghanaian forward would not quite provide the decisive edge the club so desperately craves. By contrast, were Arsenal to land Yildiz, he would instantly elevate them. 

Meanwhile, social media buzz has many arguing that Semenyo is enjoying a stronger campaign, having already scored seven goals and recorded three assists across all competitions. Yet Yildiz is quietly piecing together an impressive season of his own in front of goal, with six strikes and seven assists. 

Ultimately, Yildiz is a player firmly in form who provides that skill that is most needed for an Arsenal winger: that of being capable of penetrating the more defensive minded opponents.