While the transfer window may not be open yet, clubs up and down the land are assessing their options, with data departments and scouting networks going into overdrive.
Arsenal’s success this season is not for everyone, but many of Mikel Arteta’s peers have been mightily impressed with how the Gunners have gone about their business. And success leads to replication.
Transfer committees are now looking for players with similar traits to some of Arsenal’s best in their potential recruits. Udinese’s Arthur Atta – wanted by Everton, Newcastle, Fulham and a host of elite Italian clubs – feels he has just what Premier League sporting directors are looking for.
“I’m a player who likes to have the ball in the build-up, to be close to goal, to give my team-mates good balls, create space for teammates and also move a lot to disturb the opponents,” Atta tells The i Paper. “I like to play in the middle and see opponents who don’t understand how to defend those movements.
“I have physical and athletic quality that could be useful in the Premier League. I’m a creative player who can also make a difference one against one. All these things could make me a success in England.”
