As Santi Cazorla turns 38 today, supporters have reminisced about just how good he was, sharing clips of some of his best moments and praising the unique qualities he possessed.
Granted, there will never be another Cazorla, but the Gunners have often missed someone with his skillset, capable of dribbling past opposition in the middle of the park with ease due to their quick feet and technical ability, before creating something out of nothing through flair and an impressive passing range.
You could argue that Martin Odegaard does so in more of an attacking role, but with Arsenal continuing to be linked with one name in particular, they could soon get their closest match to Cazorla yet.
That’s because various reports have linked Valencia and USMNT central midfielder Yunus Musah with a move back to the club he spent seven years with. Musah was just 16 years old when he turned down a scholarship deal with the Gunners in 2019, despite being one of the most talented youngsters coming through Hale End.
However, four years later and he could be set for another move after proving his quality in Spain. Having impressed within the Valencia academy, Musah was promoted to the first team where he has continued to develop and establish himself as an exciting prospect.
The now 20-year-old has scored five goals and provided three assists for Los Che, who are reportedly looking to cash in on the midfielder after he impressed at the World Cup.
Italian transfer expert Fabrizio Romano claims Arsenal are one of a number of teams who have recently been monitoring Musah, while The Athletic state that Valencia could sell for just north of £17million due to their financial situation.
A new forward is believed to be at the top of Mikel Arteta and sporting director Edu’s agenda this winter after Gabriel Jesus underwent successful surgery on a knee injury which could keep him out of action for up to three months. However, central midfield is also said to be an area of interest, with Palmeiras’ Danilo a long-term target.
It remains to be seen if Musah becomes a serious target for Arsenal, although it could be a deal that makes perfect sense in terms of strengthening squad depth for the unprecedented fixture schedule this season. Still only 20, Musah would have a point to prove and can flourish under Arteta’s guidance in the years ahead.
