He’s just like Saka: Arsenal pushing to sign £38m star with “electric pace”

Arsenal is reportedly close to announcing its initial summer signings, with goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga and midfielders Martín Zubimendi and Christian Nørgaard expected to join soon. Kepa would provide cover for David Raya, while Zubimendi and Nørgaard are seen as replacements for departing Thomas Partey and Jorginho in midfield.

Despite these potential arrivals, Mikel Arteta, Andrea Berta, and the Arsenal management still have significant work ahead.

Arsenal targeting attacking reinforcements

Following a third consecutive second-place finish in the Premier League, the need for additional attacking power at Arsenal this summer is apparent. The following table highlights the decline in the Gunners` offensive output compared to their previous two title challenges under Arteta.

The table clearly demonstrates that last season`s attacking metrics were significantly lower across the board compared to the two prior campaigns.

This is why discussions this summer often revolve around target strikers like Benjamin Šeško or Viktor Gyökeres, indicating the club is actively seeking a new number nine. However, they are also looking to strengthen their options out wide.

Reports from Spain suggest that Arsenal are `strongly` interested in Borussia Dortmund`s Karim Adeyemi and are reportedly `pushing` to sign him.

The German international, valued at around €45m (£38m), is considered a `serious alternative` to Nico Williams, who is expected to join Barcelona. Adeyemi is seen as someone who could add `explosiveness` to Arsenal`s attack.

The 23-year-old forward began his senior career at RB Salzburg, notably scoring four Champions League goals before his £38m transfer to Borussia Dortmund three summers ago.

In 105 appearances for Dortmund, Adeyemi has contributed 26 goals and 17 assists. This summer, he featured in all three of Dortmund`s Club World Cup matches.

His potential arrival raises the question: could he become the 13th German player to represent Arsenal, joining current teammate Kai Havertz and following in the footsteps of players like Mesut Özil, Bernd Leno, Per Mertesacker, and Lukas Podolski?

How Karim Adeyemi would improve Arsenal

Arsenal aims to improve their left-wing options, as many agree that an upgrade or alternative to Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard is needed for the team to reach the next level.

However, some commentators, like Andrew Mangan and James McNicholas on the Arsecast, believe it`s highly `unlikely` Arsenal will sign two wingers this summer. Therefore, a player versatile enough to play on the left but also cover for Bukayo Saka on the right would be ideal.

Adeyemi fits this description, having been used on both flanks by Dortmund managers Nuri Şahin and Niko Kovač this season.

Let`s examine how he compares to Arsenal`s key wide player, Bukayo Saka. According to FBref, Adeyemi is statistically similar to other attacking midfielders and wingers in Europe`s top five leagues, much like Saka.

These statistics are based on domestic league and UEFA club competitions over the last year, comparing players in attacking midfield and winger positions.

While Saka generally ranks higher in most metrics – which is expected given he`s considered one of the world`s best by teammates like Martinelli – Adeyemi`s stats are still impressive. He surpasses Saka in non-penalty goals and successful take-ons, demonstrating his individual threat and dribbling ability. His high percentile for expected assists also suggests he creates good chances, even if the final ball or finish isn`t always there. Saka excels in overall shot and chance creation and is more involved in build-up play (touches, progressive passes received).

Overall, Adeyemi offers a blend of goal threat, dribbling ability, and positional versatility that could make him a valuable addition to the Arsenal attack, providing competition and cover across both wings, much like Saka currently operates.