Arsenal Reportedly Negotiating Deal For 'Cristiano Ronaldo-Like' Goal Scorer

Arsenal is reportedly making progress in signing a “Cristiano Ronaldo-like” goal scorer.

Mikel Arteta could be gearing up for a rebuild in preparation for the possibility of ace player Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang leaving. In the process, the Gunners appear to be heavily linked to Ronaldo-like youngsters.

A recent report from Gazzetta Dello Sport (via Metro) claimed that Arsenal is now in-talks to sign Roma goal scorer Justin Kluivert, a youngster who is said to have been taking a leaf out of Ronaldo’s book. Sources in Italy revealed that Arsenal is negotiating with Roma to sign the young forward as part of a deal that would see Henrikh Mkhitaryan being moved permanently to Serie A.

The report further noted that the Gunners “are happy to sell” Mkhitaryan or possibly consider him for a new loan deal. It has been said that discussions between Arsenal and Roma have been progressing well, and both clubs are eager for some sort of a swap deal.

Arsenal reportedly values Mkhitaryan at around £13 million ($16.3 million). Roma, on the other hand, is reportedly demanding up to £36 million ($45.2 million) in exchange for Kluivert. In simpler terms, the Italian side would make about £20 million ($25 million) by swapping the Ronaldo-like player.

Despite the financial crisis caused by the pandemic, Arsenal is said to be “ready to pay” the asking price for Kluivert, who is the son of Dutch legend Patrick Kluivert.

But aside from being carried by the name of his father, Kluivert is viewed to be a great addition to Arteta’s squad. After making his debut season at Ajax, Kluivert took his talents to Roma, but he had not immediately proven that he’s a player worth keeping.

In his first season with the Italian side, Kluveirt only scored one goal. However, he bounced back this season and now has a total of seven goals under his name.

In an interview with Four Four Two back in 2018, the Dutch forward revealed that he was amazed by Ronaldinho’s career. However, it is the five-time Ballon d’Or winner Ronaldo whom he has always modeled his game on.

“For me, Ronaldinho was a phenomenon. But away from the pitch, he was not a top professional. So now I prefer someone like Cristiano Ronaldo, who lives for his sport as well. That’s what I also try to do. Because what you show on the pitch also reflects on how much you are willing to sacrifice,” Kluivert said.