Former Arsenal star believes in-demand striker compared to Erling Haaland would be “perfect” for Gunners

Arsenal legend Michael Thomas believes Benfica striker Darwin Nunez would be “a great addition” for his former club.

The Uruguayan hitman has captured the eye of several of Europe’s biggest clubs after producing a stunning goal return this season.

The 23-year-old may have drawn a blank in Benfica’s goalless draw with Famalicao on Saturday night - but he can still boast a record of 25 goals in 26 league games during the campaign.

Nunez has also shone on Europe’s biggest stage by netting six goals in ten Champions League appearances before his side succumbed to a 6-4 aggregate defeat in their quarter-final tie against Liverpool.

The striker is said to be at the top of the agenda for the likes of Manchester United, Barcelona, AC Milan and Newcastle United as the summer transfer window approaches.

But former Gunners midfielder Thomas wants his old club to acquire a player he suggested would be “the perfect number nine” for Mikel Arteta’s side.

He told Caught Offside: “Darwin Nunez has put in some really strong performances in the Champions League this year and he will be a great addition for any club.

“He is strong, good with his feet and has that Erling Haaland-like instinct in front of goal.

“He would be the perfect number nine for Arsenal, but if we do not get top four then I think it will be hard to acquire him.

All the top teams have now seen what he can do on the biggest stage now.”

Strengthening his frontline is believed to be high on Arteta’s list of priorities this summer with the likes of Alexandre Lacazette and Eddie Nketiah approaching the final months of their current deals.