Football fever has taken over this summer, as many players have proudly represented their country on a global stage. One young star who wasn’t at the World Cup in Brazil, however, is Chelsea’s new signing Mario Pasalic.
The midfielder made Croatia’s initial 30-man squad before eventually being one of those left out, having previously played for their youth sides right up to under-21 level. What is most impressive about his international career, though, is that he is only turned 19 in February.
Having paid an undisclosed fee for the youngster, it will be interesting to see how Chelsea utilise Pasalic next season. A loan move would seem likely given the Blues’ history of sending young players away to gain experience. This may also be expected given the circumstances; Pasalic has only one full season playing for Hajduk Split in the Croatian top flight, which is far from one of Europe’s top leagues.
What he did do in his one full season, though, was impress. Having suffered an injury that halted his progress the previous year, Pasalic grabbed his opportunity with both hands by scoring 11 goals in just 30 league appearances, as well as racking up five assists. A Togel Hongkong ratio of better than a goal every three games is incredible for a midfielder and, although it was only his breakthrough campaign, there could be plenty more to come from the young Croatian.
Arsenal are a tad late to the party, but they are very close to signing two new players. Their rivals have all signed at least two new players, but Arsenal’s exploitation of the transfer market means that they could bring in Mathieu Debuchy and Alexis Sanchez in a matter of days, as reported by Talksport. The fans are obviously jubilant at this news, which has been in circulation for a few days now. However, they will now be wondering who is next on the shopping list.
I am personally wondering who Arsenal are lining up because beyond Sanchez and Debuchy, not much has been reported. There have been hints that a defensive midfielder, striker, centre-back and back-up goalkeeper will be brought in. Who do Arsenal need to focus on first though?
It was apparently made clear that the Gunners would be trying to bring in a striker next season, but if they are successful in signing Alexis Sanchez then the need to buy another expensive attacker is reduced. As Arsenal are seemingly not chasing a big-name striker, they may be content with bringing in a cheaper option that is not sought after by everybody. The reduced competition would not only make them more likely to get their man, but also for a relatively low price.
I think Arsenal should be eyeing up a defensive midfielder next, as they need to pay up to replace Mikel Arteta who simply doesn’t have the fitness to start and finish every game of the Premier League season. He will still be a very important player, but he shouldn’t be starter. Therefore, I think the Gunners need a player who is both for the long-term and ready to play for a team like Arsenal now.
As for the goalkeeper and centre-back, the former has to be signed, but again the North Londoners don’t need an expensive name. Both positions should be covered, but the unnoteworthy names of the people brought in to do the job will probably mean it is not huge news.