Who Is This Russian Midfielder Barcelona And Arsenal Are Trying To Sign? Everything You Need To Know

Scout Report – Aleksandr Golovin

Arsenal were believed to be interested in CSKA Moscow midfielder Aleksandr Golovin for quite some time, but they will have to move fast if they are to add him to their ranks. As of now, they also face competition from Barcelona in the battle to sign Golovin.

The Gunners have been monitoring the 21-year-old for some time, with his potential having been noted after he made the breakthrough in his homeland. Barcelona have newly entered the race for his signature, with the La Liga giants having had scouts in attendance at CSKA’s recent Champions League clash with Basel. The reports have been positive owing to the midfielder’s brilliance, and both clubs are in line to sign Golovin in January.

History

Born in Kaltan, Russia, Golovin has been a part of CSKA Moscow for the last 3 years. At just 21 years of age, he is already a regular in Viktor Gancharenko’s side and has played 92 games for the club. The midfielder made his Russia debut back in 2015 and is expected to start for his country in the World Cup next summer.

In fact, he is now an established member of the Russia national team, with 15 caps to his name, and is fast closing in on 100 senior appearances at club level. Going forward, Golovin is expected to be one of his country’s best players at the World Cup next summer and hopes have been pinned on him since he helped Russia’s U19s win the European Championship back in 2015.

Playing Style

A strong dribbler and an attacker, Golovin’s passing accuracy remains unmatched in the team. He is quick, boasts of good technique, is aggressive and can also press the opposition quite well. Offensive plays are clearly his strength but Golovin can also tackle quite well. He also contributes to the side’s defensive duties.

However, the player is on the weaker side when it comes to aerial duels and he also gets fouled often. That said, these are not deal-breakers of any sort and they seem rather insignificant when compared to his strengths.

Golovin’s Future

Barcelona could be considering Golovin as a possible alternative to Liverpool’s Philippe Countinho – a man they pursued throughout the summer but to no avail. Hence, instead of wasting more time on Coutinho, the club could be looking at alternatives.

Arsenal, on the other hand, have been dealing with the possible exit of Alexis Sanchez and Mesut Ozil for a while now. They will be in search of a replacement and Golovin appears to fit the profile.

With both clubs keen, it remains to be seen where Golovin ultimately ends up. Regardless of where he goes, the player will undoubtedly be an asset in the future.