Arsenal's pursuit of Vinícius Júnior may have fallen through, but the search for a new left-winger continues. With the Premier League champions looking to strengthen their attack, here's a breakdown of some potential alternatives, each with a unique set of skills and strengths.
Kenan Yildiz
Yildiz, a dynamic and creative player, has been linked with Arsenal for a while. His ability to score and create chances, as evidenced by his 20 goal involvements in 47 games, makes him an attractive option. The Turkey international's comfort with both feet and his ability to leave defenders unsure of his next move make him a versatile and unpredictable threat. Yildiz's performance in the 2025-26 season, where he became the first non-Italian Juve player to reach double figures for goals before turning 21, further cements his potential.
Nico Williams
Another name often associated with Arsenal, Williams, despite his €90 million release clause, offers a blend of dribbling prowess and goal-scoring ability. His 8.2 dribbles per 90 and 7.7 touches in the opposition's penalty box per 90 in the 2025-26 season showcase his ability to create space and score. Williams' impact off the bench for Spain in the World Cup, where he provided the assist for the winning goal, highlights his importance to his team.
Abdou Ezzalzouli
Ezzalzouli, known as 'Ez Abde', shone for Real Betis last season with 18 goal involvements in 29 La Liga games. His ability to win free-kicks and progress the ball upfield makes him a valuable asset, especially for a team strong in set-piece situations. Ezzalzouli's performance in a team that qualified for the Champions League further enhances his appeal.
Mika Godts
Godts, a young Belgian winger, has been linked with Paris Saint-Germain. His quick feet, ability to take players on, and end product make him a highly exciting prospect. Godts' 30 goal involvements in the Eredivisie last season and his chance-creating carries place him among the top wingers in Europe's top leagues.
Iliman Ndiaye
Ndiaye, a Senegal international, has been closely linked with Arsenal. Despite mostly playing on the right for Everton, he can also play on the left. His ability to carry the ball and create chances, as evidenced by his 73 dribbles in the Premier League, makes him a versatile option. Ndiaye's performance in the 2025-26 season further highlights his potential.
Saïd El Mala
El Mala, a 19-year-old Bundesliga player, scored 13 goals in 34 games for FC Köln. His ability to create and end chances, as evidenced by his shot-ending carries and goal-ending carries, makes him a promising young talent. El Mala's performance in a struggling team showcases his ability to make an impact.
Matias Fernandez-Pardo
Fernandez-Pardo, a Belgium international, had a solid campaign with Lille. His ability to progress the ball and create chances, as evidenced by his long progressive carries and chance-creating carries, makes him a valuable asset. However, Arsenal may be looking for a more proven player.
Outside Shouts
- Jack Grealish: A short-term option with a history of producing in the Premier League, Grealish's ability to win fouls and create chances makes him a useful addition.
- Marcus Rashford: Despite a good loan spell at Barcelona, Rashford's future at Manchester United remains uncertain. His corner-taking ability and goal-scoring prowess make him an interesting option.
These alternatives offer a range of skills and strengths, providing Arsenal with options to strengthen their left side and potentially move the needle in the upcoming season.
