Arda Turan is being linked with a January move away from Barcelona and Arsenal are reportedly a likely destination.

Overview

Arda Turan is once again being linked with a move away from Barcelona and his agent now seems adamant that the 30-year-old’s future will be decided in January.

The winger is yet to feature for the Catalan giants this season after making 14 La Liga starts last term and scoring 13 goals in 30 appearances over all competitions.

The Turkey international also provided seven assists.

Barcelona are reportedly willing to sell him for £18m despite spending closer to £30m for him in 2015 when they signed him from Atletico Madrid.

Of course, with Mesut Ozil and Alexis Sanchez possibly leaving, Arsenal are being heavily linked.

Although Turan can obviously contribute to attacking play when fit, what could he add to the current Arsenal side that we don’t already have?

Next, style and strengths…

Style and strengths

The 30-year-old is known for his playmaking abilities and creativity, which, combined with his accurate passing, makes him a serious threat.

On average, Turan completes 87% of his passes and creates 1.5 chances per match. He also plays around 1.33 key passes per game.

His ability to create chances and finish is decent, and at any other top European club, the Turkish player would potentially hold a starting position.

Last season, he managed 0.72 shots per game with 40% shot accuracy.

Turan is also very versatile and can play in multiple positions from central midfield, to left or right winger.

What’s more, he’s just as strong in whatever position he plays.

The Turkey international is also good at holding onto the ball and dribbling past defenders, as well as keeping possession.

Turan is also useful in defence.

He often looks to make tackles (1.28 per game) and intercept passes (0.72 per game).

Next, weaknesses…

Weaknesses

Turan is very weak in the air and wins only 24% of all aerial duels he commits to.

Even though his role as a winger isn’t to battle for high balls but rather send them himself, he should be a bit better at making his presence felt.

The winger also makes an average of 1.56 fouls per game.

Fortunately, Turan does make sensible tackles that don’t get him into much trouble as, last season, he only picked up one yellow card despite committing 28 fouls in La Liga.

Next, Turan at Arsenal?

Turan at Arsenal

The experienced midfielder has plenty of qualities and would certainly be a great addition to the current Arsenal squad.

Due to his versatility, he could play almost anywhere up front and provide cover for any position from left wing to the right.

His creative abilities make him another great option for Arsene Wenger to deploy in order to break opposition defences.

At 30-years-old, Turan is slowly moving past his prime but he could still play at the highest level for a few more seasons.

In theory this could give Arsenal time to prepare for the long-term rebuilding of the squad.

Turan’s status at Barcelona undermines his true ability and the player would surely relish the opportunity to once again prove himself by becoming a regular starter in Arsenal’s first team.

Next, Turan skill show…

Turan skill show

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0qRn_4h-6AA