Replacing Mesut at Arsenal?

     When Arsenal Mesut Ozil from Real Madrid back in 2014, the feeling that Arsenal fans would have had was that they are gonna compete for league titles and champions league. Fast forward to 2020, most fans want Ozil out of the squad and winning a FA Cup makes them happy shows how much the club has declined. One area Arsenal clearly lack apart from defense is creating chances. The penultimate league game against Aston Villa where they could not open up the highly compact Aston Villa back-line showed Arsenal need more than perseverance and desire. Since Ozil's more unlikely to feature again and his contract is to be over by the end of the 2021 season, Arsenal will be in hurry to land an established attacking midfielder or an immensely talented prospect. Let us look at some of the options available at Arsenal's disposal with their limited budget.

WILLIAN

     Arsenal signed Willian on a free transfer with eyebrows raised from the Gooners as they have seen failed transfers of Gallas, Cech and Luiz in the past. But this move might actually benefit Arsenal given Willian's versatility in the park. He can play left, right and down the middle also. The rumours from the Emirates indicate that Arteta wants to deploy in the number 10 role. He provided the most assists and created more chances than any player at Arsenal and also at Chelsea. His workrate is undoubtedly exceptional and he stays fit for arguably most part of the season. His experience will also help the likes of young prospects like Saka and Martinelli.

NKUKU

    When someone says Bundesliga all we here is Sancho and Havertz, but Nkuku is also the one we all should have a look into. He has provided 15 assists and scored 5 times this season but pretty much gone under the radar with him linked with no big club. Leipzig won't be letting him leave and even if they do they will demand a fortune as they signed him this season. With champions league football in hand next season, he won't be looking elsewhere unless giants like Real Madrid or Barcelona come for him.

AUOAR

     Auoar is under the radar of many clubs with Arsenal showing heavy interest in him recently. They got a bid rejected from Lyon which involved cash and player who is rumored to be Guendouzi. He resembles David Silva in most department glides like a snake into the defensive line and carries the ball forward with more intent and end product. His stats might not be great to be shown but his vision and creativity in the final third are great when compared to any midfielder in Arsenal

EMILE-SMITH-ROWE

    This might come as a surprise for many but Smith Rowe should be given a shout out for his contributions to Huddersfield City. His movement and quick feet are always a trouble for the defenders. He should not be the first choice for this position but should be involved more in the league games where he can show his quality. He scored 2 times and assisted thrice with one of his goal was a crucial one in Huddersfield survival.

ZANILO 

    After the loss of Ramsey, Arsenal haven't replaced him one who scores a lot of goals from midfield. Zanilo would be a perfect replacement for him if Arsenal could not get Ceballos on loan again. Zanilo was in great form before he got injured. He scored six times in 26 appearances which is good for a twenty year old and will hit more numbers soon. Zanilo is also known for his silky feet and driving capability. 

SAKA

    The numbers that Saka racked up this season is phenomenal. He has made 13 assists across all competitions for Arsenal. He came third in the Arsenal player of the season behind Leno and Aubameyang. Arteta even deployed him in a three man midfield on the left side but the defensive frailties made Arteta switch to 3-4-3 which also limited Saka's appearances. But this kid has huge potential and he can go on to reach higher levels in the future.

So this is my opinion on how Arsenal can try to solve the void left by Ozil. Please have your say in the comments. Thanks for your time