Arsenal leading the race for this Atletico Madrid forward- The 4th Official

In a recent print edition, Corriere Torino stated that Arsenal are leading the race for Atletico Madrid forward Alvaro Morata. It has been mentioned that the Gunners are showing interest in recruiting the Spain international in this off-season.

Morata’s Up And Down Loan Spell At The Allianz Stadium This Season

Morata has endured an inconsistent loan spell at Juventus but has done well to put in a few match-winning displays while acting as the spearhead of their attack. The Madrid-born sensation has made 48 appearances for the Turin giants this season, netting 12 goals and securing nine assists in various competitions.

The 29-year-old has done well to average 1.7 shots, 1.3 key passes and 0.7 dribbles per 90 minutes in Serie A.

He also distributed the ball relatively well after completing 75.7% of his attempted passes in the Italian top tier (stats via whoscored).

Should Arsenal Head Coach Mikel Arteta Move In For Morata This Summer?

Morata is proficient at generating a yard of space for himself to get a few shots in on target. He can be a good finisher in the final third when he is playing at the top of his game. However, the Spanish talent has struggled to find the back of the net consistently during his loan spell at Juventus. Hence, he will be a risky option for the Gunners to pursue during this summer transfer window.

Morata will add some goals and depth to Mikel Arteta‘s frontline. However, the Gunners cannot afford to rely on the Spanish sensation’s services week in week out.

Therefore, the North London giants would be better off opting for a more proven goal-getter if they plan to challenge for a top-four place in the Premier League next season.

Having said that, Morata could be a good option for Arteta to call upon off the bench, so the Arsenal boss should only consider moving in for him if he is planning to use him as a squad player over the next few years. At 29, the Spaniard might still have a few good years left in him to perform at his best and become a regular feature once again in the English top flight.