Arsenal 'battle' Liverpool for winger who could finally compete with Gabriel Martinelli

Arsenal are said to be battling leaders Liverpool for more than just the Premier League title. The Gunners are currently trailing the Reds as they look to end their more than two-decade long wait for another league title.

Mikel Arteta’s men suffered through a difficult run of form leading into the last international break, and they now find themselves playing catch up with a small margin for error, especially given Liverpool’s superb form.

Away from the trials and tribulations of the Premier League season, the Gunners will be continuing their recruitment efforts, even with sporting director Edu Gaspar needing to be replaced. On that front, Caught Offside have reported that Arsenal are interested in a move for Olympique Lyon star Malick Fofana. Fofana is a 19-year-old winger who has been catching the eye in Ligue 1 this season, scoring five times, earning himself a senior Belgium cap along the way.

The report claims Arsenal and Liverpool are both showing real interest in the young talent, with Lyon’s less than ideal financial situation potentially opening the door to a deal. AC Milan, Aston Villa, Bayern Munich and Juventus are also said to be interested, with a reported asking price of £29million being mooted.

Though, it’s worth noting that Gent are owed 20% of any future fee, so Lyon would be owed a significant chunk of any fee. Arsenal are in need of a winger, with more competition needed for Gabriel Martinelli and Bukayo Saka.

With Arteta also potentially wanting a striker, Fofana could be seen as an ideal affordable option for Arsenal, with most high-level wingers costing significantly more. Arsenal currently have Raheem Sterling on loan from Chelsea to fill the gap, and Arteta does intend to use the England international despite not leaning on him much so far.

Arteta said on Friday: “I would like to see him more to be fair and this is down to me. He’s trying his best. His application and commitment around the team has been exceptional and now it’s time for me to five I’m more minutes.”