Arsenal have missed out on the possibility of signing Malick Fofana, with the Lyon winger now on the verge of completing a move elsewhere.
According to David Ornstein, Sunderland have reached an agreement with Olympique Lyonnais for the permanent transfer of the 21 year old, with the player given permission to travel for his medical and complete the deal. However, recent reports say Crystal Palace are plotting to hijack the deal, willing to offer more package than Sunderland. Either way, the development comes as another disappointment for Arsenal, who have spent much of the summer looking for a solution to their long standing problem on the left wing.
Arsenal’s left wing problem still persists
For the past three seasons, the need for an upgrade on the left wing has been clear. Yet, heading into the final day of the summer transfer window, Arsenal still have not solved the problem.
The position was expected to be one of the club’s priorities this summer, particularly after inconsistent output from their existing options. However, with the deadline now upon us, the chances of making the desired addition are rapidly disappearing.
Fofana could have been another exciting option for Mikel Arteta, but Arsenal will now watch as the Belgian completes his move to Either Sunderland or Crystal, decision up to the player.
The question for Arsenal fans is simple. After identifying the left wing as an area that needed improvement for so long, why are we still in the same position?
Are Arsenal becoming their own worst enemies?
From Morgan Rogers to Vinícius Júnior, Julian Alvarez and now Fofana, Arsenal have seemingly had a clear list of targets and alternatives.
The problem has been getting the deals over the line.
Arsenal’s reluctance to overpay has been understandable, but that approach has also seen them miss out on opportunities. The failure to move decisively for Rogers eventually allowed Chelsea to complete the deal, while Arsenal’s decision to wait on Vinícius also came back to hurt them after the Brazilian committed his future to Real Madrid.
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In the process, other options disappeared. Mika Godts eventually joined PSG, while Alvarez is still undecided. Fofana on the other hand has moved beyond Arsenal’s reach. There is nothing wrong with being financially responsible, but there comes a point when being too cautious can become costly.
Arsenal have already won the Premier League and reached the Champions League final. If the ambition is to remain at the top and go one step further in Europe, the squad needs strengthening.
And after another deadline disappointment, the left wing remains the biggest unanswered question.