Report: Club now have replacement in mind for 'world-class' forward, just a week after Arsenal made their move

By Lee Connor

Just a week after Arsenal apparently made a bid for Benfica striker Darwin Nunez, the Portuguese club have apparently got his replacement sorted.

Reports last week had suggested that Nunez is definitely coming to the Premier League, with Arsenal said to have initiated contact with the striker and Benfica over a big-money summer deal. Of course, the Gunners face plenty of competition for Nunez, with the likes of Newcastle, Liverpool and Manchester United all credited with holding an interest in him.

And now, in what could be a boost for Arsenal’s hopes of landing Nunez, The Athletic has reported that Benfica have already made plans to sign Nunez’s replacement. That report suggests the Portuguese giants are set to make a move for Sasa Kalajdzic, who has impressed over in Germany this season.

Arsenal, of course, will be delighted to hear of Benfica making plans for life without Nunez. It suggests that there is an acceptance that Nunez is on his way, which opens the door for the Gunners.

Labelled as a ‘world class’ striker by Jorge Jesus, Nunez has rattled in an impressive 34 goals in just 41 games this season. Arsenal, meanwhile, are also thought to be keen on Gabriel Jesus, with a bid expected soon.

TBR’s View: Arsenal Should Bid For Darwin Nunez As Well As Jesus

Sure, they might only need the one main striker. But Arsenal have been stung in the market before and it’s worth them having more than one iron in the fire.

Darwin Nunez is one the world’s best strikers at the moment and the remarkable thing is that he’ll probably get even better down the line.

Arsenal are desperate for new goal threats this summer. And at the end of the day, if Nketiah and Lacazette both leave, then Nunez and Gabriel Jesus might be the double act they need.