Man City and Arsenal duke it out for Dortmund’s goal-machine – but who would make the best fit?

If you were a top class striker (or even just a fairly decent one) there’s a good chance that you found yourself linked to Arsenal, Manchester City or Liverpool this January. The sheer amount of false hope that this must have generated amongst these fans is surely tantamount to the general feeling amongst England fans prior to a major International tournament. The consistent nagging sense of disappointment that comes with inaction – particularly in Arsenal and Liverpool’s cases – has been even more pressing this January.

No moves have been made to strengthen these squads despite it being clear there are areas that need work. That’s why the rumour-mill continues to be popular – it’s clear to everyone that Arsenal need another striker, but Wenger’s refusal to commit in the transfer market has left the door open for increasingly spurious rumours.

Arsenal and Manchester City were both recently linked to Borussia Dortmund’s star striker Lucas Barrios. German paper Bild has reported that both clubs have signalled their interest in the 27-year-old and may be willing to make this interest concrete by placing a bid.

Barrios managed an impressive 44 goals in 91 games at Dortmund in his first two seasons at the club, but has found it difficult to hold down a regular spot in the first team this season. Despite his apparent free-scoring ability he’s only made 12 appearances for Dortmund this year and may well be willing to move on and find his feet at another club.

When asked about Barrios’ future Dortmund’s sporting director Michael Zorc dodged the question by responding: “We do not comment on speculation”. At the moment that’s all this is – there’s no evidence to suggest that either Man City or Arsenal’s interest is real. But should it be?

For me, this just doesn’t seem like a Man City signing. City can afford to be chasing much bigger targets and don’t have to reduce themselves to going after Dortmund’s second-choice striker. Why go for Barrios when you can afford to try for Edinson Cavani?

If he did join City, he’d also probably find his opportunities somewhat limited. At Arsenal it would be different.

The Gunners desperately need a striker with natural goal-scoring ability to do the job that the likes of Marouane Chamakh and Park Chu-Young can’t. Barrios’ record suggests that he can do just this and what’s more he wouldn’t break the bank. On paper he looks like the quintessential Wenger signing. There’d be ample chances for him to make a name for himself at the Emirates and with his scoring record you wouldn’t bet against him racking up a decent tally in the Premier League.

What’s your take? Would Lucas Barrios make a good signing? Is he better suited for City or Arsenal?

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