Arsenal scouting this International sensation – should they snap him up in the summer?

After Arsene Wenger’s recent quotes, it’s a bit surprising to see Arsenal get linked to a player who went to the African Cup of Nations this year. The Frenchman was asked whether he wanted to sign anybody else this January and responded:

“In the Africa Cup of Nations, the best player is Gervinho. It’s simple. Why should we go there when the best player is Gervinho? We already have Gervinho.” (Source: Goal.com)

This, naturally, caused a lot of ridicule amongst Arsenal fans. Regardless of what you think of Gervinho, it seems to suggest that Wenger holds him to a higher standard than many of his African compatriots. The thought of dipping into the transfer market and signing a player who was at the AFCON was clearly not on Wenger’s mind.

Yet Sky Sports has now linked the Gunners to Spartak Moscow striker, Emmanuel Emenike – a player whose stature has risen thanks to his participation in the 2013 AFCON.

Goals against Burkina Faso and the Ivory Coast have seen his reputation grow. His 30-yard free-kick against the Ivorians was a particular sight to behold. Even from that far out, the keeper didn’t stand a chance.

Speaking about the speculation regarding his future, Emenike told the Press: “I am playing in Russia at the moment and I have a contract that I intend to respect. But to be linked with the Premier League is a dream come true. I would love to play there in my career. There are many great clubs there.”

Quite definitive statements – though he’s being respectful to Spartak Moscow, it’s clear he’d favour a move to England. If Arsenal were interested, you get the feeling that he’d jump at the opportunity. And given that SkySports claim that Arsenal have sent a scout to watch him in action for Nigeria, they may well fancy taking the proceedings to the next stage.

Emenike is a real force to be reckoned with. His strength, power and physicality are enough to make him a problem for any defence and he’s no slouch in front of goal. He has scored 18 times in 37 outings for Spartak Moscow.

My only concern for Arsenal is that he has a somewhat similar playing style to Olivier Giroud. Despite this, he’s the kind of talent who would help improve the Gunners. Given that he probably wouldn’t break the bank, he’d be a good investment.

What’s your take? Would Emenike be a good addition at the Emirates?

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