Scout Report – Kerem Demirbay
Arsenal are believed to be keen on signing German star playmaker Kerem Demirbay in January. The in-form midfielder currently plays for Hoffenheim, and he caught the attention of Premier League clubs following his scintillating performances last season. The 24-year-old has been a standout star in an impressive Hoffenheim side but he could be tempted to make a switch to join Arsenal.
His all-action performances in the middle of the park were key to Hoffenheim’s fourth-place finish last season. Demirbay is continuing to impress for the club this current season as well but a chance to move to the Premier League could sound enticing for the talented midfielder.
Let’s take a look at Demirbay’s profile.
History
Demirbay embarked on his football career playing for FC Schalke in 1999. After spending several years with the club, he chose to continue his training with Borussia Dortmund and SG Wattenscheid. The 24-year-old has represented Turkey at youth level and the senior Germany national team. He joined Hoffenheim from Hamburg in 2016, after spending time on loan at Dusseldorf and Kaiserslautern.
Demirbay scored 6 goals and provided 10 assists for Hoffenheim last season. The midfield playmaker has previously played for Hamburg, Kaiserslautern and Fortuna Dusseldorf. This season, he has provided two assists in 10 appearances so far.
Playing Style
A player with a penchant for long shots, Demirbay is quite strong when it comes to dribbling and set-pieces. Adept at taking direct free-kicks, the player likes tackling and is quite physically imposing on the field.
He is extremely creative and has this inane ability to orchestrate attacks even in the most stale situations. With that being said, Demirbay’s runs are incisive and well-timed to trouble even the strongest of the opposition. However, the player does commit fouls often and his discipline could prove to be a concern for Arsene Wenger.
Demirbay’s Future
The player is being linked with a lot of clubs but if he does join Arsenal, the Gunners will be happy to sign a new creative player, especially with the futures of a number of their present midfielders in doubt.
Mesut Ozil and Jack Wilshere are yet to extend their contracts with the club and could leave in the summer. The drama with Alexis Sanchez refuses to die down and he is still being slated to join Manchester City. Similarly, Santi Cazorla is also out of contract in the summer and is struggling to return after a year out with injury. Aaron Ramsey will have a year remaining on his deal next season, with Arsenal looking to extend it beforehand. Thus, Demirbay would certainly have an advantage if he chooses to complete the deal with Arsenal in January.