Arsenal have undergone a drastic transformation under the helm of youthful and vibrant manager Mikel Arteta, now topping the Premier League by five points after 14 matches played of the 2022/23 season. 

What’s the word?

Despite the successful start, the Gunners now find themselves without their star talisman, Gabriel Jesus, for several months following the Brazilian’s knee injury sustained against Cameroon at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.

And now, with the business end of the club campaign set to commence, Arsenal may need to target a replacement to bolster the squad and ensure a slide from form does not occur during the dogged battle for Premier League gold. 

Italian outlet Tutto Juve has confirmed that the Gunners have entered the race to sign Memphis Depay, who will become a free agent next summer.

Edu could be lured to the player’s versatility and mobile approach which bears similarity to Jesus, something the club could receive bounteous benefits from implementing. 

A new talisman?

Currently, only Eddie Nketiah serves the north London club as a centre-forward in Jesus’ absence, and while other offensive stars can step up in his stead, the risk of disruption to the finely poised balance of Arteta’s churning machine could be of detriment to the eventual goal of major silverware.

And with Depay a striker boasting a whole host of tools on his belt, he could be the man to lead the club to glory and continue to thread the offensive department of the team together with the midfield, without seam. 

Having plied his trade across several countries in Europe, Depay has amassed a collective total of 147 goals and 92 assists over 396 senior club appearances. 

From a financial standpoint, Depay’s deal also indeed expires in the summer, therefore meaning a low offer could test Barca’s resolve, who have been embroiled in a notorious financial crisis across recent years.

And the player himself would bring a kaleidoscope of talent to the Emirates Stadium, a clean goalscorer and a creative eye, Depay is a quick, dangerous and multifaceted player with a relentless work ethic.

Indeed, as per FBref, the 28-year-old ranks within the top 1% for touches in the attacking penalty area and progressive passes received when compared to attacking midfielders and wingers across Europe’s big five leagues this past year, easily translating to centre-forward duties when required.

And his return of 0.50 non-penalty goals per 90, alongside his rank within the top 5% for total shots, also further highlights the calls that he can assume the role at Arsenal.

Labelled one of the “best players” in Europe, by Barcelona teammate Riqui Puig, Depay has been earning plaudits for some time for his offensive prowess, and he, and indeed Arsenal, could reap the rewards of combining in the near future, searching for silverware with a shared platform to flourish.