Alternative options the Emirates Stadium side could consider if move for Anfield ace fails.
Arsenal have now failed in two bids to sign want-away Liverpool striker Luis Suarez, and are believed to be preparing a third offer in excess of £46million as they hope to tempt the Reds into parting ways with their prized asset, but what are the alternatives if they fail in their efforts to sign Suarez, much like they did in failing to sign Gonzalo Higuain and Stevan Jovetic this summer also. Here are five options they could pursue if Liverpool pass on their next bid.
Roberto Soldado (Valencia)
Having scored over 60 goals in all competitions during the last two seasons, the 28-year old forward is one of the most prolific forwards in Spain, not named Messi or Ronaldo, and has been linked with a move away from Valencia, but the Gunners face competition from two other Premier League sides. Soldado would provide great competition for Olivier Giroud up top as Arsenal continue their search for a high-calibre forward since selling Robin van Persie to Manchester United. With bags of Champions League and International experience, the Premier League should not tough to adjust to, just ask the recent crop of Spanish-based players who have embraced the Premier League. A tough competitor for Spain’s best, Soldado has the quality to be a match winner every time he plays, giving Arsenal a chance to win each and every outing.
Wayne Rooney (Man United)
The talismanic forward is considering his future at Old Trafford after being told he would be second fiddle to main man Robin van Persie at the club, and wants to play the central role, where he has been played sparingly in recent times. Arsenal remain keen on him, but Chelsea have also shown interest. 61 goals in two years is still a fantastic return for a frustrated forward, who would become the focal point of Arsenal’s inconsistent attack. A great fit in their 4-2-3-1 formation, Rooney would make the most of the team’s creative influence, with Santi Cazorla and Jack Wilshere pulling the strings in midfield. The 27-year old attacker is entering the prime of his career, and his addition at Arsenal could be enough to make them a title challenger, for real.
Jackson Martinez (FC Porto)
Another prolific forward for Arsenal to consider, Jackson Martinez has bagged 39 goals in all competitions for Porto, and over 50 in his last two seasons in total. The 26-year old Colombian attacker is finally reaching his full potential and may have exhausted his options in Porto, but has rejected the chance to move to Liverpool, Tottenham and Napoli. Arsenal should make the effort to sign the forward, as he possesses rare talents in front of goal, with pace, aerial ability and finishing prowess, a rare combination. An instant improvement over their current options, he would be the ideal player to take the Gunners forward and make them a contender.
Michu (Swansea City)
With Premier League experience already under his belt, with 22 goals last season for Swansea, Spanish striker Michu would be an excellent addition for the Gunners. Playing in an adapted 4-2-3-1 at Swansea, similar to Arsenals, Michu would be able to fit in well at the Emirates, playing either as a central striker of in a withdrawn role, but his versatility is attractive to a team who likes to rotate their attacking options in game. Known for his clinical finishing and off the ball runs, Michu thrived under the creative influence of Pablo Hernandez and Jonathan de Guzman last season, and with the likes of Santi Cazorla & Theo Walcott at Arsenal, Michu could have a greater impact.
Demba Ba (Newastle United)
The Senegalese attacker has been frozen out of Chelsea since his £7million summer arrival at the club, and with Jose Mourinho looking to bring in his own targets, Ba is expected to be the odd man out, and is looking for a way out. Having rejected both West Ham & Galatasaray this summer, Arsenal should make a move to sign Ba on the cheap. The prolific forward impressed with the Hammers before he switched to Newcastle where he again stole the show, pathing the way for a move to Chelsea. His instinctive play and football intuition is suited to how Arsenal play, with their high-tempo football, based upon footballing instincts. With a lot of Premier League experience to his name, his adjustment at Arsenal shouldn’t be a problem.