Ryan Fraser left Bournemouth when his contract came to an end earlier this month (Getty Images)
According to TeamTalk (h/t Daily Star), Arsenal are confident of landing Bournemouth winger Ryan Fraser for free this summer.
The 26-year-old Scotsman’s contract with Bournemouth is set to expire this summer and Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta believes they can bring him to the Emirates on a free transfer.
The diminutive winger has been a mainstay at Bournemouth and one of the first names in Eddie Howe’s side in recent times. Fraser was Bournemouth’s stand-out player last season with impressive figures of 7 goals and 14 assists. His 14 assists earned him recognition, however, has not been as impressive as last season.
The Scottish international has so far played 208 games for Bournemouth, scoring 24 goals and 33 assists since moving from Aberdeen in January 2013.
Arsenal, on the other hand, just have two wingers at their disposal – newcomer Nicolas Pepe and a young Reiss Nelson. Pepe, despite a difficult start, has now adjusted to life in the Emirates and has emerged as their highest assist-provider with six to his name.
Nelson, meanwhile, is still young and has a lot to improve. Moreover, Pepe prefers to play on the right flank. Star striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang has played on the left wing this season.
The Gabon international has still impressed and is a target for Man United and Barcelona. With the side clearly lacking another consistent winger in their midst, it seems like a wise decision by the Gunners to sign Fraser.
Having proved his potential as a regular starter in the Premier League for the past few years, it would not take Fraser much time to adjust to the new surroundings in North London either.
Also, Fraser’s ability to not just find passes but also contribute to his side with his goals will give Arsenal the extra edge that they have clearly lacked this season. The club has had to rely so much on Aubameyang, that Fraser’s arrival would ease the burden upon their skipper.
Arsenal just have one established winger in their ranks and Fraser would be a great addition to the squad, given their poor displays this season. Moreover, the Scotsman is now available for free and this seems like a great chance for Arsenal to sign a proven customer. Hence, by all means, Fraser coming to Arsenal would be a win-win for both parties.
