Arsenal idol backs N’Golo Kante swoop amid ‘massive’ claim – ‘it’s frightening’
Kevin Campbell has backed Arsenal to swoop for Chelsea star N’Golo Kante “straight away” if the finances are right.
The former Gunners striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, claimed the 31-year-old’s numbers are still “frightening” despite a number of injuries during the 2021-22 campaign.
According to the Daily Star (9 July), Arsenal are plotting a “shock approach” for Kante with Mikel Arteta wanting more world-class midfield talent.
The two-time Premier League winner made 26 appearances in the top flight last season – including 21 starts.
Campbell claimed the Arsenal midfield is liable to lose grip of games when injury-troubled star Thomas Partey is absent.
He suggested the addition of Kante would help alleviate a “massive problem area” for Arteta.
Campbell told Football Insider‘s Ewan Kingsbury: “For me, if the money was right – I’d do it straight away.
“He’s someone who knows how to operate in the Premier League, that’s for sure. Yes, he suffered a few injuries last season, but his numbers are still frightening.
“He’s still one of the best around, and that midfield area is still a massive problem area for Arsenal.
“We’ve seen them play games where the midfield just can’t get a grip – especially when Thomas Partey isn’t there.
“We need someone else who knows how to navigate and dominate. I don’t think there has been a better exponent of that midfield engine room in recent years than N’Golo Kante.”
Arsenal have completed deals for Gabriel Jesus, Fabio Vieira, Matt Turner and Marquinhos so far this summer.
Football Insider revealed on Monday (18 July) that Leicester ace Youri Tielemans has told friends he favours a move to the Gunners as he pushes for a summer transfer.
In other news, pundit tells Arsenal to sign Takehiro Tomiyasu alternative after £40m update.