Why Arsenal can strike gold by signing Hector Herrera in January

According to reports in Sun, Arsenal will battle it out with Spanish giants Real Madrid to sign Porto midfielder Hector Herrera. The 28-year-old Mexican’s contract runs out next summer but the Gunners may swoop in this January to secure a cut-price deal or even a pre-contract agreement.

Sun also states that Aaron Ramsey could be on his way out to AC Milan next year. This means that getting Herrera would be perfect for Arsenal in terms of finding a replacement for the Welshman.

The problem for them is that Real Madrid are also keeping close tabs on the Porto midfielder. PSG and Barcelona are marginally interested too. (Sun)

However, for Arsenal, this would potentially be huge if they get the 28-year-old to the Emirates Stadium. He could be a perfect player for Unai Emery, as a midfield enforcer.

Hector Herrera – Perfect for Arsenal

A different kind of versatility in the Arsenal midfield would be game-changing for the club. Herrera can play as a No.10, as a central midfielder and also as a defensive midfielder.

The bonus here is that the Mexican is pretty comfortable in all three positions. His passing range is very strong, probably the best in the Portuguese league. His long-range shooting, incisive through balls and tackling are some of his main trades.

Comparing those attributes with the stats, the 28-year-old has a pass success rate of 88.4%. He possesses a tackle and interception average of 3.5 and 2 per game respectively, which is astonishingly high.

Verdict

If Unai Emery manages to sign the player, it would be something close to striking gold. Herrera has the experience of playing big games, both in domestic and international competitions. A move to the Premier League will obviously be a step up for him, if and when it happens.

When clubs like Real Madrid, PSG and Barcelona are interested in a player, you can guarantee he is a top-class talent. So for Arsenal, it would be huge if they swoop in for Herrera.