Former Arsenal midfielder Ray Parlour believes Arsenal should focus on signing a striker and a left winger this summer before making a move for Sandro Tonali.
The former Arsenal star admitted Tonali is a player he admires and believes the Italian midfielder would improve almost any side.
However, Parlour suggested that Mikel Arteta‘s biggest priorities remain in attacking areas after another season where Arsenal struggled for goals at key moments.
Parlour questions midfield situation
Speaking during an exclusive interview with 10bet, Parlour praised Tonali’s all-round midfield qualities and compared him to the traditional box-to-box players of previous generations.
“He’s a top player. There’s no doubt about that,” Parlour said.
“Again, you’ve always got to be in the hunt when you’ve got players of this quality.
“But Zubimendi has just gone off the boil a little bit. He had a really good start to the season – he’s one of my players who I’ve really enjoyed watching – but he’s just dropped off a little bit.
“That’s why Myles Lewis-Skelly has got his opportunity.
Parlour highlighted Tonali’s ability to contribute in every area of the pitch, saying the Newcastle midfielder has the qualities of an old-fashioned box-to-box player.
“He’s strong,” Parlour added. “You can do a bit of both – get forward and you can also defend well.”
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Arsenal expected to strengthen this summer
However, Arsenal’s need for attacking reinforcements has become a major talking point heading into the transfer window, and even Parlour noted that, saying, “Arsenal’s transfer priorities are a striker first, and maybe a left winger before they start thinking about Tonali or anyone else.”
The Gunners are also expected to be active in multiple positions as they prepare for another demanding campaign next season.
Injuries and a lack of consistency in the final third have increased calls for the club to bring in a natural goalscorer and additional support in wide areas.
Parlour’s comments may reflect the views of many Arsenal supporters, with the Gunners expected to strengthen their squad this summer as they now aim to retain the Premier League title.
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