Arsenal should target Matheus Pereira as Buendia alternative

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Arsenal may well be on the lookout for a creative midfielder this summer, with Martin Odegaard only on loan at the Emirates.

It would appear that there is a chance that Mikel Arteta could target Emi Buendia. Football London reported in February that the Gunners were keen having previously held an interest in January.

However, Buendia will not come cheap. The Daily Mail reported in April that Norwich value the Argentinian at £40 million following their promotion to the Premier League.

So Arsenal may be tempted to look elsewhere.

And one player they should perhaps have their eye on is West Brom star Matheus Pereira as the Baggies edge closer to swapping places with the Canaries.

Pereira has been a shining light for Sam Allardyce’s men, particularly in recent times. He scored a stunning brace at Chelsea to spark a superb goalscoring run.

The 24-year-old is their top goalscorer. Meanwhile, no player in their squad has provided more assists.

He is a player capable of outrageous skill. So it is no surprise that he is reportedly attracting attention from their Premier League rivals (via Athletic).

Pereira a wanted man

There is nothing to suggest that Arsenal are keen at this stage. But they should certainly consider joining the running if they are not currently looking.

According to a recent report from UOL Esporte, West Brom’s asking price for Pereira is just £17 million.

That was before his recent purple patch in front of goal. But even if his asking price has increased, he will surely cost a lot less than Buendia.

Arsenal need to add a game-changer to their ranks, particularly if Odegaard does not stay.

Admittedly, some fans may feel underwhelmed about the idea with Pereira set to be relegated. But based on his last few performances, the Brazilian looks to have the potential to shine in a considerably better side.