Premier League leaders Arsenal may be another team in the race to sign Liverpool and Tottenham Hotspur target Sofyan Amrabat after the Qatar World Cup, former Chelsea defender Jason Cundy tells talkSPORT (14 December, 12.30am).
Make no mistake; Antoine Griezmann will find pockets of space at a premium during France’s semi-final clash with surprise packages Morocco at the Al Bayt Stadium on Wednesday.
The Atletico Madrid schemer has been arguably France’s standout performer over in Qatar, pulling the strings to glorious effect from his roving number ten role. With a place in Sunday’s final on the line, however, Griezmann faces perhaps his toughest test yet; Amrabat the destroyer to his dictator.
The £35 million-rated Fiorentina battle-axe is, Morocco coach Walid Regragui argues, the best defensive midfielder to play at the 2022 World Cup. A ‘world-class’ talent. One who’s Duracel-powered performances laid the foundations for those famous wins over Belgium, Spain and Portugal en route to the final four.
COULD ARSENAL JOIN LIVERPOOL AND TOTTENHAM IN RACE TO SIGN MOROCCO’S SOFYAN AMRABAT?
According to FootMercato and Sky reporter Florian Plettenberg, Amrabat’s camp have already held talks with Liverpool, interest in one of the tournament’s breakthrough stars rising as rapidly as his reputation.
Tottenham remain hot on the 26-year-old’s heels too. Spurs came within touching distance of signing Amrabat for a potential bargain fee in a previous window.
Cundy, however, believes the lack of top-quality midfield depth at Arsenal could see Mikel Arteta throw his hat into the ring too.
“Look at Arsenal, that holding midfielder (department),” says Cundy, formerly of Chelsea, Spurs and Crystal Palace. “I’m sure there are a lot of teams out there (who will want to sign Amrabat).”
Arsenal have already been linked with, among others, Eintracht Frankfurt’s Djibril Sow, FC Luzern’s Ardon Jashari and Palmeiras ball-winner Danilo. Despite an outstanding run of form, there remains a worrying lack of cover for Thomas Partey and Granit Xhaka.
Albert Sambi Lokonga has struggled to live up to early expectations at the Emirates Stadium.
“Up against a talented Belgium midfield, he was the main man. He can play. He can mix it up. He’s a real talent. And I think Morocco, as a team, could surprise a few. I thought the way they played against Belgium was absolutely terrific.
“There are links with Liverpool. Even before the World Cup, there’s been a few rumours (about a potential move to the Premier League).”
