Arsenal want Orbelin Pineda – Do they need him?
According to Football.london, Arsenal are interested in Orbelin Pineda of Cruz Azul. The Mexican has attracted the attention of several European clubs, mostly English. Spurs, Wolves, West Ham, Southampton, Newcastle and Everton are just some of the names who are after the player’s signature.
Profile
Orbelin Pineda is a 24-year-old Mexican midfielder who plays for Liga MX side Cruz Azul. He started his youth career at Queretaro in 2012 and played for their youth sides for the next two seasons. After that, he was called up to the senior team and made his debut against Club Celaya.
He went on to make over 50 appearances for the senior side, scoring 9 goals and assisting 5. Deportivo Guadalajara signed him in 2016 and a successful spell followed, which lasted for 3 years. During that time, he made 128 appearances and contributed to 18 goals.
At the start of 2019, he moved to Cruz Azul and has settled in well there since. So far, he has played 68 games for the side, scoring 8 goals and 7 assists (source – Transfermarkt).
The Mexican is a regular part of the national team as well with 21 caps and one goal to his name to date.
Arsenal should get Pineda
It has been quite a few years since people saw such a good Arsenal team. Led by their former player Mikel Arteta, the Gunners have looked quite the team this season. They have done some good business too, with the likes of Thomas Partey, Gabriel Magalhaes and Willian arriving at the Emirates.
However, there does remain room for improvement as their losses to Liverpool and Manchester City showed. Thomas Partey has slotted in well and provides the team with some steel. While Elneny does do a good job of suffocating the opposition, there is not much creativity to be seen.
Arsenal chased Houssem Aouar through the summer but failed to agree on a deal with Lyon (source – Metro). It looks like they need a midfielder who can provide the goods at the attacking end, especially after Mesut Ozil’s exclusion from the team.
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Orbelin Pineda looks like a good solution for them. He is a very versatile midfielder with the ability to play in various midfield positions as well as in the wings. A decent goal contribution rate means that he is someone who fits the bill of what Arsenal need. With so many clubs after the utility man from Mexico, Arsenal should make an early move for him.
