Transfer News: Arsenal in talks to sign free agent Yacine Brahimi

Algerian international Yacine Brahimi and Arsenal are in talks for a free transfer to the Emirates after running down his contract at FC Porto.

Arsenal’s pursuit of an attacking player has taken them to various shores as Unai Emery seeks the right options to improve his side. According to Sky Sports, Arsenal are in talks with Algerian international Yacine Brahimi for a move in the coming days. The Algerian could move on a free transfer after running down his Porto contract, which ended on June 30th.

The Gunners are in the market for players who could fill various positions in the team. While its a well-known fact, Emery is seeking defensive reinforcements in the current market, attacking players are also a priority for the manager. With already plenty of attacking midfielders available at the club, there is a need for wingers who could add a new dimension to their forward play.

Brahimi’s name, on the other hand, is nothing new for Arsenal. The Algerian was linked many times before, although nothing concrete happened during those periods. The latest connection is supposedly reported because the fact that he is a free agent and Arsenal’s dire financial budget would ideally suit a free transfer.

Brahimi, who spent five years with Porto, is a free agent after running down his deal with the club. However, he did make a substantial mark by playing in his most prolific season to date. The Algerian scored 13 goals last season, mostly from a left-wing position and could be a good fit for the Gunners.

Going back to Arsenal’s financial situation, the club are looking to focus their limited finances towards a move for Crystal Palace’ Wilfried Zaha. The Gunners have launched a £40 million bid for the Ivorian, but it certainly is going to take more than that. Palace have reportedly placed a £100 million price tag on Zaha, which could put him beyond Arsenal’s means.

As for Brahimi, the interest could be genuine as the player has been a consistent performer. Additionally, the low cost of acquisition could also attract Arsenal towards the player. But from another perspective, he is not something Arsenal are relying too much on the window. Even with his signing, he would still be used as a secondary option and not an automatic starter at the club.

Overall, it could be a good move for the player and the club. Brahimi has never played for a top side barring Porto, and it could be a good chance personally to test at the highest level. If the transfer story is true, then any further move would be after the African Cup of Nations, where he is currently representing Algeria.