Craig Burley has told ESPN that he is desperate for Arsenal to sign Wolverhampton Wanderers striker Raul Jimenez this summer, if Alexandre Lacazette leaves the club – and reckons Mikel Arteta would have Jimenez in a “heartbeat”.
Jimenez, 28, joined Wolves – initally on loan – in the summer of 2018, before completing a £30million (Telegraph) permanent move in April 2019. He has since scored 39 goals in 86 games, as well as laying on 17 assists.
This season, his form has been tremendous. The Mexican has netted 22 goals for Wolves, as well as laying on 10 assists for the Midlands club. The former Benfica and Atletico Madrid ace has a contract at Wolves until the summer of 2023.
Former Arsenal man Burley says he would take Jimenez in a “heartbeat” and reckons Gunners boss Arteta would too. He reckons the Wolves star would be an excellent addition, especially if Lacazette leaves the club.
“Yes he’s been at some bigger clubs before but it hasn’t worked out for him,” Burley said. “Some players come good at different times. What would Jimenez give you? Physical, runs the channels, good in the air, experienced, links up, and scores goals.
“They have Aubameyang and hopefully they won’t lose him. But Lacazette’s lack of game time might see him go elsewhere. I’d have him in a heartbeat, and I think Arteta would do as well. So, yeah there is potential.”
TBR’s view – Would Jimenez be a good signing for Arsenal?
If Wolves spent £30million to sign Jimenez, then the Mexican is going to cost a whole lot more if Arsenal want to sign him this summer. Say Wolves wanted around £50m, would The Gunners spend that figure on a player who turns 29 in April?
The likelihood is that they probably wouldn’t. Unless Arsenal do spend big and Arteta wants to buy players in their peak, then it is likely that Jimenez will not move to The Emirates – especially with Eddie Nketiah coming good since returning from Leeds.
