Arsenal are not expected to make an approach for Everton’s Amadou Onana this summer, according to The Athletic reporter David Ornstein.
The Belgian international was heavily linked with a switch to the Emirates during the January transfer window, with reports claiming that the Gunners had held talks with the player’s agent. However, writing as part of a Q&A, Ornstein said the club were looking at other options:
“I’m sure there is some appreciation for Onana at Arsenal and elsewhere, but I’m not sure he fits their profile or price bracket.”
“In the number 6 role, we know Arteta likes Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi (and there will be others). If it’s a No 8 they go for there will be multiple options as well. I don’t really see this one happening.”
Onana would have cost a sizeable sum
Arsenal will have to be smart with their spending this summer and, with Onana’s asking price said to be between £50m and £60m, it appears that they have moved on to more attainable targets.
As Ornstein mentions, it is not only the cost of the deal that may have led to the Gunners’ cooling their interest. They are looking at different types of midfielders, with Martin Zubimendi being more of a playmaker.
Arsenal would have had a lot of competition for the player
Some fans may feel that the club could have negotiated the price with Everton, especially as they could potentially be relegated at the end of the season.
However, Onana does have other suitors, with the likes of Manchester United, Chelsea and even Barcelona having been mentioned in reports over the past few weeks.
For that reason, there is no incentive for Onana’s club to lower their demands, and that has likely played a role in Arsenal ending their pursuit.
