Wayne Rooney has urged Arsenal to go after in-form Crystal Palace striker Jean-Philippe Mateta to elevate their attack next season.
The Gunners were desperate to land a blow to Manchester United in Sunday’s blockbuster Premier League clash. However, both teams failed to convert their chances and settled for a 1-1 draw.
The game did signify that Mikel Arteta’s men are missing a lethal striker who can get at the end of the crosses and put them into the box. Even after creating an ample amount of chances, their goal conversion rate continues to haunt them this season.
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There were calls for Arsenal to sign a new centre-forward during the January transfer window. But they remain empty-handed, and it looks like their relentless pursuit of the PL title will remain incomplete once again.
Liverpool have started 15 points clear at the top of the table, and the Gooners are likely to finish as runner-ups for the third consecutive season. The manager understands his team’s demands, and a striker will be at the top of their wish list in the upcoming summer window.
ROONEY PUSHING ARSENAL TO SIGN PALACE FORWARD MATETA
Former Manchester United star Rooney believes that they should sign Palace’s energetic talisman Mateta. The French international is in the best form of his life and has already made 18 goal contributions.
His presence upfront has been vital for the Eagles. Arteta can benefit from having a player of his calibre who can get at the end of those dangerous balls in the box.
Interestingly, the player is also linked with Man United, and it looks like Rooney wants the 27-year-old to choose the Gooners over his former side. While talking to BBC Sport, he said:
“Jean-Philippe Mateta is a big, strong lad who scores a lot of goals. From watching Arsenal over the past few games in the Premier League, they have put a lot of balls into the box without having anyone to get on the end of them. I am sure he would help from that point of view.”
Last week, the Sun revealed that United have earmarked Mateta as their prime target this summer. They have moved on from Sporting CP ace Viktor Gyökeres as they want a more affordable option.
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But Arsenal are also struggling with a similar issue. They ignored several key targets this January due to their exorbitant price tag. Signing the Palace attacker makes sense since he will be an instant answer to their goalscoring woes. Plus, he earns a meagre £50k per week wages which won’t hamper their financial books.
It remains to be seen if they will outpace their fierce rivals, Man United, and make an attempt to sign Mateta in the upcoming months.
