Arsenal have been linked with Juventus striker Mirko Vucinic in reports today, in a bid to strengthen their title chances. Arsenal are acutely short of striking options and are supposed to be keen to tie up a deal at the earliest. Here’s a look at three reasons why it would be a good idea.

1. Versatility

Like most of the attackers that have been linked with Arsenal in the last month, Mirko Vucinic is extremely versatile, typifying the sort of player that Arsenal need- one who can play anywhere across the front line. Vucinic can slot into any role in attack, but has often been deployed as a winger on either flank, center-forward or even as a deep lying striker.

Vucinic creates plenty of opportunities for his side with his dribbling and through-balls. When he plays on the wing, he likes to cut inside on the right, and has a powerful shot in his arsenal. He would fit in nicely into Arsenal’s system as an alternative to Giroud given his ability to get involved in the build-up play.

2. Knack for important goals

Vucinic never has been a prolific scorer in his career, but he has had a knack for getting important goals. He scored 10 goals in the Serie A last season in 31 appearances, 4 of those goals opened the scoring, 1 was an equalizer, 1 gave Juventus the lead while the other four extended the lead. In fact Juventus didn’t lose a match when he scored, showing the importance of the goals when he does score them.

His ability to score long range goals from both feet will undoubtedly add a different dimension to Arsenal’s passing philosophy, and at 6’ 1” is an imposing aerial threat. In addition to the important goals, Vucinic created 53 chances in those 31 appearances, including 6 assists. Factor in his experience of playing in the Champions League for many seasons, and he does seems like a very good offensive addition to Arsenal’s ranks. (stats taken from squawka)

3. Loan deal possible

A loan deal for Vucinic would suit Arsenal more than the permanent one. The availability of Arsenal’s top striker targets this January is questionable, and with the World Cup coming up, most of them would be reluctant to move to a new club. Given that fact, it may be in Arsenal’s best interest to sign the Montenegrin forward on a loan deal till the end of the season.

Juventus are reportedly seeking a fee in the region of £8.2m, and are looking for permanent deals only, which could be a stumbling block for the deal to happen. However, if Arsenal are able to convince Juventus to sanction a loan deal, it would be just the sort of deal that could provide Arsenal with sufficient depth in the squad to see off the challenges of Manchester City and Chelsea in the race for the title.