Arsenal eye sensational move for Man City star: A strategic masterstroke or risky gamble? | OneFootball

Arsenal are reportedly exploring the possibility of signing Manchester City midfielder Kevin De Bruyne on a free transfer this summer. The 33-year-old Belgian international is set to leave City at the end of the season after a decade of service, and his openness to remaining in the Premier League has alerted several top clubs, including the Gunners.

Manchester City’s Kevin De Bruyne (L) (R) during the English Premier League football match between Manchester City and Arsenal at the Etihad Stadium in Manchester, north west England, on April 26, 2023. (Photo by Oli SCARFF / AFP) / RESTRICTED TO EDITORIAL USE. No use with unauthorized audio, video, data, fixture lists, club/league logos or ‘live’ services. Online in-match use limited to 120 images. An additional 40 images may be used in extra time. No video emulation. Social media in-match use limited to 120 images. An additional 40 images may be used in extra time. No use in betting publications, games or single club/league/player publications. / (Photo by OLI SCARFF/AFP via Getty Images)

According to reports, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta, who previously worked with De Bruyne during his time as assistant coach at Manchester City, is keen on reuniting with the playmaker to add experience and creativity to his midfield.

De Bruyne’s potential arrival raises questions about how he would fit into Arteta’s system, which currently features Martin Ødegaard as the primary attacking midfielder and Declan Rice anchoring the midfield. While Ødegaard has been a consistent performer until perhaps more recently, De Bruyne’s vision, passing range, and leadership could potentially provide an additional dimension to Arsenal’s midfield, especially in high-stake matches.

However, concerns about De Bruyne’s age (he’ll be 34 years old in June 2025) and his recent injury history cannot be overlooked. Some Arsenal fans have expressed reservations about signing a player in his mid-30s who commands a high wage,  around £400,000 per week.

Despite these concerns, De Bruyne’s track record speaks for itself. With six Premier League titles, two FA Cups, five League Cups, and a Champions League trophy, he brings a wealth of experience and a winning mentality that could benefit Arsenal’s relatively young squad.

The decision to pursue De Bruyne will ultimately depend on Arsenal’s assessment of the player’s physical condition and their willingness to integrate him into a midfield that already boasts significant talent. If managed correctly, De Bruyne could serve as a mentor to younger players and provide crucial contributions in key moments.

Whether this potential signing materializes remains to be seen, but it undoubtedly adds intrigue to Arsenal’s transfer strategy.

Arsenal Debate: Is Kevin de Bruyne really the best every midfielder? I think not!

What are your thoughts Gooners? Do we need a Kevin de Bruyne in our midst?

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