Arsenal targeting Dominik Szoboszlai for January transfer

Arsenal have been linked with a January transfer window move for Red Bull Salzburg attacking midfielder Dominik Szoboszlai. The rumors have picked up steam over the past week or so and claim that the Gunners are looking for creative ways to beat, well, pretty much every other big European club to the signing of the 20-year old breakout star. He reportedly has a £22.5M release clause in his contract, but given the number of clubs sniffing around, I’d wager the price tag ends up much higher than that. He has reportedly made it clear internally at RB Salzburg that he would like a move.

Szoboszlai would be a fantastic signing for Arsenal. He’s averaging 3 key passes per 90 and 2.3 shots per 90 in the Champions League this season. He excels at creative passing and shots — the two things Arsenal most need to spark their struggling attack. And at 20-years old, he’s a player the club could build around for years. The Gunners are working to rebuild their roster, and last time I checked, you need to sign young, talented players to do that.

As with all transfer rumors, take this one with a grain of salt. Arsenal get linked with all sorts of players all the time, few of the rumors have any teeth, and even fewer of the moves actually go through. And unfortunately, I’m afraid this one may be out of reach. If he doesn’t move within the Red Bull club empire — he’s likeliest to move to RB Leipzig — Arsenal could be priced out.

But we can expect the Gunners to be linked with a number of creative, attacking midfield types going forward after the failed pursuit of Houssem Aouar and the team’s clear, desperate need at the position. Aouar and Szoboszlai aren’t the only players in the world who fill Arsenal’s dire need.

For the past few years, Arsenal have shied away from using the January window for major signings. But that was a Raul Sanllehi-driven policy, and as you know, he was politely shown the door over the summer. Perhaps Edu will be less hesitant to make a splash in the winter window. Goodness knows Arsenal need the help.