Report: Arsenal make approach for £120k-a-week PL star called ‘brilliant’ by Ian Wright

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Arsenal have reportedly made an approach to Manchester United about their star Donny van de Beek.

90min claims the Gunners have contacted Premier League rivals Man United about the 24-year-old’s future.

Mikel Arteta’s side have asked to be updated on his current situation, as it’s been an underwhelming first year for him at Old Trafford.

Unfortunately, Van de Beek really struggled to force his way into the Man United XI.

The £120,000-a-week central midfielder joined after several previous years shining with Ajax, but he’s yet to replicate the same kind of form in English football.

However, Arsenal legend Ian Wright did describe him as “brilliant” back in April:

“This is brilliant from Donny van de Beek [in the build-up to United’s winner] and this is what he’s about,” Wright said on Match of the Day, as quoted by the Metro.

“He’s come from a possession-based academy, that’s what he does. He makes movement. It’s great movement and leaves the space open to Bruno Fernandes.”

Donny van de Beek would be huge Arsenal gamble

On paper, Van de Beek has the tools that would see him suit the kind of football Arteta is trying to create at the Emirates Stadium.

However, it’s impossible to ignore the last 12 months.

His return of one goal and two assists in 36 appearances highlights his struggles, but more than that, he just looked lost at times on the pitch. 

It can take some players that first year to adapt to a new country. Additionally, it’s worth noting players have been dealing with unusual circumstances during tight restrictions. 

It would be interesting to see how much the Dutchman would cost. Unfortunately, he’s had to pull out of the Netherlands squad for Euro 2020 this summer through injury.

In other news, Report: Tottenham keen on 23-year-old star that Jurgen Klopp claimed is ‘incredible’