Chelsea winger Callum Hudson-Odoi has been linked with a move to Arsenal this summer as the Gunners board looks to satisfy Mikel Arteta’s transfer needs in his bid to challenge for the top four spots in the Premier League.
Hudson-Odoi has fallen down the pecking order at Chelsea following the arrival of Raheem Sterling from champions Manchester City, with the Blues looking at loaning out the 21-year-old forward. Newcastle United and Bayer Leverkusen are interested in securing a permanent deal for Hudson-Odoi as well.
Nicolas Pepe’s future remains uncertain at the Emirates Stadium, with a move to Ligue 1 outfit Nice rumoured to be edging closer. Reiss Nelson’s recent muscular injury has also left Arteta’s attacking options slightly depleted, despite the return of new signing Fabio Vieira.
Player Profile
Callum Hudson-Odoi is a talented and versatile attacker who can play on either flank. He has excellent dribbling skills and timing while releasing the ball is his main strength. The England international often shifts the ball away from a defender before passing or crossing, confusing the opposition defensive line.
His ability to cross with either foot makes it difficult for the closest defender to stop him from releasing the ball to his intended target. Moving the ball away from his opponent allows him to create an angle to deliver the ball into the box. The opposition teams are most often caught off-guard which also helps the Chelsea forwards to make free runs into the box.
Hudson-Odoi is also blessed with explosive acceleration from a standing position. Given his impressive balance, he can change direction quickly to lose his opponent. He is therefore very useful in one-on-one situations. Opponents often have to commit more than one defender when Hudson-Odoi is in possession.
According to reports, Arsenal are still interested in signing out-of-favour Chelsea winger Callum Hudson-Odoi. ✍️
Do you think the young Englishman is the wide player that the Gunners need? 🏴#AFC #Arsenal #HudsonOdoi #Chelsea pic.twitter.com/vnNbYj4cNY
— AFTV (@AFTVMedia) August 16, 2022
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Verdict
Callum Hudson-Odoi’s hefty wages could play a role in Arsenal turning a deal for the talented winger, but the attacker might be willing to reduce his salary demands if he is guaranteed a substantial amount of first-team football.
The Chelsea forward would face stiff competition for a starting spot from Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Martinelli and Emile Smith Rowe, who are now crucial players for the Gunners in their bid to challenge for the top-four position. Hudson-Odoi could be brought in on an initial loan deal with an option to buy, allowing Arteta to get a closer look at the winger, and helping the youngster to rediscover his form.
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