Arsenal and Manchester United linked with move for Argentine playmaker

According to the Express, Arsenal are interested in bolstering their midfield options even further with the acquisition of Valencia’s Argentine schemer,Ever Banega.

The Gunners are certainly not lacking in the midfield department so it seems strange that they continue to be linked with players in that position. But if they were to dip into the market again, they would be looking at a more defensive-minded player to provide competition for Mathieu Flamini.

However, Banega is not your typical defensive midfielder; he prefers to dictate the game from deep areas rather than continuously win back possession. The Argentine has created the most chances at Valencia this season with 20, seven more than any of his teammates.

He loves to maraud forward from deep areas, attempting take-ons has become a routine for him but only 49% of his 63 attempted take-ons have resulted in him keeping hold of the ball this season.

Banega is adept in the tackle too, a skill which makes his game extremely well-rounded. He has won 74% of his tackles this season, although his interception rate of just over one per game could definitely be improved upon.

The Argentine keeps things ticking over nicely in midfield for Valencia, completely 82% of his passes. He loves to be the one who tries that final pass that cuts open defences but 14 of his through ball attempts have been unsuccessful this campaign. The positivity in his passing is most definitely a plus point though, 67% of his passes have been forward passes this season. Last season this figure ended on 65.7%, meaning he is consistent with his distribution of the ball.

To be honest, although Banega suits Arsenal’s elegant style of football, he is not needed currently. He is at his best when played alongside a ball-winner rather than when he is given the responsibility of winning possession back for his team. This means, there is no room for him in the Gunners’ current midfield set-up, especially when talent such as Jack Wilshere have to make do with a place on the bench.

The Express’ report listed Southampton and Manchester United as possible suitors for Banega too. He would be much better off signing for one of these clubs rather than the Gunners as regular football would be much easier to come across.