Arsenal handed perfect chance to sign dream Saka back-up

Robin Bairner

• 7 Aug 2024 07:05 BST
• 6 min read

Arsenal have been offered a tantalising possibility to sign Kingsley Coman from Bayern Munich, a player who could be the backup option to Bukayo Saka that Mikel Arteta has long craved.

Saka has long been Arsenal's only genuine option on the right wing, and while his ability to play game after game is admirable, it leaves the possibility of Gunners being severely hampered if he were to pick up a significant injury.

The prospects of this would be more limited if the 22-year-old’s game time was reduced and a legitimate rotation option added to the squad – and this is where Coman can come in.

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A dashing winger capable of playing on either flank, Bayern are reportedly open to offloading the 28-year-old, who has an Estimated Transfer Value (ETV) of €35.6 million.

Sky Sports Deutschland’s Florian Plettenberg has reported via X: “Bayern are now open for a loan deal for Kingsley Coman, with an option or obligation to buy.

“Paris Saint-Germain are still interested in Coman with ongoing talks. PSG informed about the option of a loan.

“Not advanced yet and no final decision. More inquiries for Coman on the table. Contract valid until 2027.”

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Coman an ideal backup for Saka

A player who has toiled with injuries, Coman would appear better suited to a backup role than he is to play regularly. His body does not appear capable of picking up lots of minutes. And it is precisely this quality that would make him a valuable alternative to Saka.

Indeed, the playing styles of Coman and Saka from last season’s league campaigns are virtually identical, with both operating as inside forwards.

Coman vs. Saka: Playing style 2023/24

With the option of a loan deal now live for the France international, Arsenal would have the option of trying before buying.

Coman does not fit the type of profile signing that Arsenal typically make, having not played Premier League football previously and being 28, but he could prove a low-cost option and that could tempt Arteta into a move.