If media reports are to be believed, Arsenal might well be on the verge of a move for Fiorentina winger Juan Cuadrado, who has attracted attention from all over Europe following impressive displays for the Italian side so far this season. Cuadrado also plays at right back and his arrival could spell big trouble for young Jenkinson, although last night’s performance suggests that we do need to sign somebody.

Sky Italia reports also claim that Arsenal’s chief transfer operator Dick Law was present in Verona and watched as Cuadrado scored both goals in a 2-1 victory over Chievo. The Columbian has welcomed interest from the North London giants and had this to say regarding the interest: “I didn’t know, I learned from you. It’s something that pleases me, but I’m happy here at Fiorentina… we’ll see.”

The report from Sky Italia also goes on to say that Law was accompanied by the player’s agent Alessandro Lucci and talks have indeed taken place regarding a €30 million summer move to The Emirates. Moreover, these reports have been backed up by the very reliable Italian journalist Gianluca Di Marzi, which shows that there is certainly substance in the story.

The 25-year-old made a name for himself last season on loan at Fiorentina and impressed enough to make the move permanent in the summer. He has an electric change of pace and is an extremely fit individual. His work rate is second to none and he’s versatile as well, being able to play on either flank and even centrally on occasions and seems comfortable even at right back. His style of play is very direct and he usually doesn’t hesitate to run past an opponent, also chipping in with his fair share of goals.

In my opinion, the door is very much open for a new winger at The Emirates, I’d rather have Lukas Podolski play centrally as an alternative to Giroud rather than on the left flank. I think that we have indeed missed the directness of a naturally wide player in recent games, although that may be partly down to injuries.

In all honesty, I would prefer a more established name like Angel di Maria to come in but I wouldn’t be too disappointed if we moved for Cuadrado, he’s certainly good enough to fit the bill at Arsenal. Although €30 million is a little on the higher side, I believe Le Prof can bring that down significantly. Something in the range of €23 million for Cuadrado will be money well spent.

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