Arsenal playmaker Samir Nasri has been strongly linked with a move away from the North London club this summer, most notably to Old Trafford – could Aston Villa winger Ashley Young be his potential replacement?
The England midfielder has been stalling in contract talks with Villa for several months now and is reportedly seeking to play Champions League football next season.
Manchester United have shown interest in the player. However, the 25-year-old may find it difficult to attain first-team football in Sir Alex’s side.
So does Arsenal tick Young’s boxes?
Arsenal play in the Champions League – Check.
Young would almost certainly be a first-team regular – Check.
If Cesc Fabregas stays at Arsenal, then the Gunners will have more of a chance of winning trophies next season. Plus, Young would be playing with fellow England internationals, Jack Wilshere and Theo Walcott in the same team.
In addition, Ashley Young was an Arsenal fan as a child, and has proven his ability against the gunners in past seasons.
But, more importantly, does Young tick Arsenal’s boxes?
Young is only 25, which leaves him plenty of time to grow and develop into a better player. But he already has experience at a high level which is great.
Something that Young is good at is set-pieces, most notably, corner kicks – something Arsenal have been lacking in past seasons.
The Villa man would link up well with Robin van Persie and Marouane Chamakh because of the quality balls he delivers into the box, and would also add a counter-attacking threat – again, something which the Gunners lack at present.
Arsene Wenger has been very conservative in previous transfer windows, and manages the only club in the Premier League that has made a net profit through the transfer market. However, this could prove a problem if Arsenal in fact want to sign Ashley Young this summer.
But maybe, just maybe, this summer will be the summer where tradition will be broken.
Like what you read? Then follow me on Twitter – http://twitter.com/Eltomo71
Visit and Join our Facebook page, click HERE to do so.
Gunnersphere is currently looking for new writers to join the squad. Contact via twitter or at Gunnersphere@snack-media.com for further details.
Yes wenger should buy him. he is the wide man we need but unfortunately
He is english, over 23 and it would seem that once man u enter the race wenger refuses to budge on the price. stubborn is our manager
I read somewhere that he will be soon launched in Manchester United’s colors and his deal is a done deal. I don’t understand whether this one’s a rumour or the other news is a rumour :O
IMO Fabregas is leaving, Nasri will move into centre midfield, and then Young should be put on the left wing.