"Reminds me of Theo Walcott and Hleb" - Bacary Sagna makes bold claims about Arsenal starΒ
Former Arsenal defender Bacary Sagna has likened Bukayo Saka with his former Gunners teammates Theo Walcott and Alexander Hleb. The English forward is in red-hot form, helping Mikel Arteta's side push for the Premier League title.
Saka, 21, has notched up seven goals and six assists in 23 appearances across competitions this season. He is on course to beat his last season tally of 12 goals and seven assists in 43 games.
The young winger boasts lighting pace, and his composure and skill on the ball have caused Premier League defenders problems throughout the campaign. Sagna has compared his playing style to that of former Gunners duo Walcott and Hleb. He told Midnite:
"Bukayo Saka reminds me of Theo Walcott and Hleb because he's fast, and he's very good one-on-one."
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Cool, calm and composed from Bukayo Saka! π€© https://t.co/adXLxJmWO8
Walcott was a speedster who played as a wide forward and in a centre-forward role during his time at Arsenal. He managed 108 goals and 80 assists before heading to Everton for Β£20 million.
Meanwhile, Hleb was more of a dribbler and creator, who was unafraid to take his man on. The Belarusian made 130 appearances, scoring ten goals and providing 20 assists in north London.
Sagna's comparison of Saka with the former Gunners pair holds merit, but there's no doubt that the young English talent is set to exceed the exploits the aforementioned duo achieved with Arsenal.
He was shortlisted for the PFA Player of the Year award for his achievements last season and also impressed at the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar with England. The attacker scored three goals and provided one assist in four appearances for the Three Lions.
Arsenal reportedly preparing Β£31 million offer for Barcelona's Alejandro Balde
Spanish publication Nacional reports that Arsenal are preparing a Β£31 million offer to sign Barcelona right-back Balde. The 19-year-old, who can also play as a left-back, is enjoying a breakout season at the Camp Nou.
He has made 18 appearances across competitions, contributing three assists. Balde's performances for the Blaugrana earned him a spot in Spain's squad for the FIFA World Cup.
The report claims that the Gunners are looking to become one of Europe's powerhouses yet again and want to count on Balde as part of their plan. They believe their offer for the Spaniard would persuade Barcelona to part ways with the player.
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However, it's convincing the player of a move to the Emirates that they first much achieve. He has two years left in his contract and has been at Barcelona his entire career.