Arsenal Transfer Rumor: Gunners take aim at Yannick Carrasco signing from Dalian Yifang

There are many pieces required in Arsenal’s rebuild and any good purchase is critical but attacking winger might be one of the more crucial after rebuilding the defense from scratch. That’s why rumours that ex-Atletico Madrid and current Dalian Yifang left-winger wants a return to European club football with Arsenal’s name mentioned as a strong suitor are going to be particularly hard to ignore. He’s what the team needs.

As a key player in both Atletico and Belgium squads, Carrasco decided to make the jump to the Chinese Super League in the winter of 2018 as a part of a “new adventure” and other such bafflegab that likely translates to “the money was good”. Since then, he has found adjusting to life in China rather difficult.

‘From a family point of view, I would rather play in Europe and stay closer to my family. The adjustment for my family was also difficult over there.

‘I have become a lot more mature and have learned a lot. Also on the field, where I had to take my responsibility and the team had to bear. But my wish now is to return.’

Reports have it that a deal is in place and negotiations for that return are progressing with Arsenal’s name being fronted as the main players in that negotiation. Manchester United have also been linked with the player, because of course they have. It’s always them.

At 25, Carrasco doesn’t count quite as the youthful revolution looked for but is easily a player who could give 4-5 years of quality football should he arrive and find a home within the Arsenal side. With the inconsistent play of the likes of Mkhitatryan and Iwobi, the time still required to polish Ainsley Maitland Niles and Eddie Nketiah into first team regulars, Yannick could be a great addition to bridge that gap.

That said, Arsenal were linked with him in the winter and went with Dennis Saurez from Barcelona instead. Let’s try not the read too much into that.