Sancho to Dortmund could unlock Arsenal's perfect Saka support

Tom Weber

• Updated: 3 Jan 2024 17:28 GMT
• 3 min read

Jadon Sancho's return to Borussia Dortmund could be an important domino in Arsenal's search for a Bukayo Saka backup.

The current season has made it abundantly clear that the Gunners need to add another right-winger to their squad. Saka played a club-record 87 consecutive Premier League games prior to missing a clash with Man City earlier in the season due to injury.

Indeed, Saka has dealt with several niggling injuries this term and questions have been asked about Mikel Arteta's use of the winger. The Gunners lack cover in that position as Saka can't play every single game across a season. It's simply impossible.

With Jadon Sancho on his way back to Borussia Dortmund, an intriguing possibility has arisen for Arsenal. German media asserts that the Man Utd flops' arrival could spell the end of Donyell Malen's time at the Westfalenstadion.

The Dutchman is keen to depart and has already switched to SEG, a Dutch agency, in anticipation of a move. The signing of Sancho could be the straw that breaks the camel's back for him.

Malen to Arsenal?

As FootballTransfers previously explained, Malen would be ideal cover for Bukayo Saka. The 24-year-old boasts a wealth of experience playing as a right-winger and he is very versatile to boot.

Indeed, a part of his unhappiness at Dortmund stems from the fact that head coach Edin Terzic has mainly used him as a right-winger. Malen prefers to play as a central striker or on the left - but this isn't necessarily an issue for Arsenal.

By signing Malen, they could kill three birds with one stone. They would not only sign adequate cover for Saka but also for Gabriel Jesus and Gabriel Martinelli. So even though Malen likely wouldn't be a starter at the Emirates, he could still see more than enough game time.

Furthermore, the Dutchman is a familiar face in north London as he spent two years in Arsenal's Hale End academy as a teenager. Dortmund are demanding at least €30 million for him. It's a significant fee for a player who has flattered to deceive since arriving in the Bundesliga, but he could be an ideal option for the Gunners.