Jermaine Jenas has urged Arsenal to sign Newcastle United midfielder Sandro Tonali and Manchester United forward Marcus Rashford this summer, expressing doubts about current Arsenal midfielder Martin Zubimendi.
Jenas questions Zubimendi's impact
Speaking to 10bet, Jenas said he has 'never been fully convinced' by Zubimendi, who joined Arsenal from Real Sociedad for £60m last summer. The Spain international started brightly but faded in the second half of the season, losing his place to Myles Lewis-Skelly. 'I think he's a decent, solid player,' Jenas said, 'but Tonali would definitely be a level up in that midfield alongside Declan Rice.'
Tonali price tag set at £85m
Arsenal are interested in signing Tonali, but face competition from Tottenham Hotspur, who had an opening £75m bid rejected by Newcastle. The Magpies are believed to want around £85m for the Italy international. Jenas described Tonali as 'one of the best midfielders in the Premier League' and a 'dictator of a game', but admitted he was 'a bit surprised that Arsenal's focus isn't more forward-thinking'. He added: 'I don't think their midfield is terrible... I still think they need a proper, out-and-out striker and a specialist on that left wing.'
Rashford touted for left-wing role
Turning to the left-wing position, Jenas backed a sensational move for Marcus Rashford, whose future at Manchester United is uncertain after Barcelona opted not to sign him permanently. 'I think they're crying out for someone with his attributes on that left-hand side,' Jenas said. He suggested Rashford should seek a fresh start, adding: 'Bringing Marcus Rashford back to the club – as good as he is – comes with complications.'
Arsenal's transfer plans confirmed
After Arsenal won their first Premier League title since 2004, club director Josh Kroenke confirmed the club would back manager Mikel Arteta in the transfer market. 'The business never stops,' Kroenke said. 'Right now there are already other teams who are trying to strengthen and come at us for next season. We need to be aware of that.'
