Lorenzo Insigne’s agent has admitted that it is an honour for the Napoli play-maker to be linked with a move to Arsenal.
The 23 year old made 36 appearances in Serie A last season, scoring three goals and registering six assists in the process. His club form has seen him receive a call from Cesare Prandelli to represent Italy for the World Cup in Brazil this month.
Some reports earlier in the week stated that Arsene Wenger has added Insigne to his list of targets after watching him on several occasions last season and the boss has now instructed his scouts to keep a close eye on him during the World Cup. The Gunners will table a £17 million bid for the Napoli attacker, if he impresses for Italy.
Insigne’s agent Antonio Ottaiano was sceptical when quizzed on the interest emanating from north London, although he admitted that Wenger’s interest is a real honour and something they cannot ignore. He said:
We take into account the praising reports that Wenger has given about the player.
We are honoured that a club like Arsenal could have Lorenzo on their wish list.
However, from here to take it to the next level, that is a possible transfer, there is a huge mountain in between named Napoli.
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The club consider him without a shadow of a doubt as one of their cardinal players for their ambitious project.
Hence, as of today, I don’t see that there can be any further developments unless Arsenal speak to Napoli directly and Napoli change their view on Lorenzo’s role here.
The Gunners need greater attacking talent and depth at the Emirates, which was quite evident from their crippled title challenge last season. Olivier Giroud was often isolated leading the line and was the only player to score double digits in the Premier League last season.
He is a talented attacker, as proved by his standing in the Napoli team and his World Cup call-up for Italy. He also has terrific movement and pace, while also providing plenty of options up front, as he can play wide as well as just behind a front man. However, his scoring record is not fantastic by any stretch of the imagination as he has netted only three times in 36 games last season and just five times in 37 the season before.
At just 22 he has a lot of scope for improvement and could be a long-term player for Arsenal if he were to make the switch to the Emirates. He might cost around £17 million, which may be an expensive gamble for a player who will not necessarily bag many goals. To be honest Fabregas is a far better, established option who can score goals.
Do we need Insigne? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
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