Arsenal can boost title chances with purchase of the ‘new Modric’

Arsene Wenger has reportedly set his sights on securing the services of highly-rated Dinamo Zagreb youngster Alen Halilovic in a move that could bolster their title push come January.

The Gunners are currently priced at 10/3 to win the Premier League with Ladbrokes, putting them just behind current joint favourites Manchester City and Chelsea, who are both available at 11/4.

However, with the north London club currently top of the league and two points clear of nearest rivals Liverpool, the acquisition of one of Europe’s hottest young stars could boost their prospects of maintaining momentum through the second half of the campaign.

And fans would relish the chance to sign Halilovic with the playmaker a long-time target of bitter rivals Tottenham, a link that prompted many to dub the young Croat as the ‘new Modric’ in reference to the former Lilywhites hero.

Spurs and Arsenal aren’t alone in their pursuit of the midfielder, with Champions League holders Bayern Munich also linked with a move for the player, who is hoping to follow in the footsteps of former club-mate and current Inter Milan star Mateo Kovacic with a big money transfer abroad.

The main stumbling block in Halilovic’s transfer to Tottenham is believed to have been a lack of assurances over playing time, with the youngster’s father keen to ensure his son enjoys regular first team football wherever he goes – in much the same way Kovacic has.

So, should the 17-year-old secure a move to the Emirates, the likelihood is that fans could see him sooner than previously expected, with the Croat potentially thrown straight into the first-team picture.

Such a gamble could pay dividends for Wenger and co. with the Dubrovnik-born player’s unknown status, silky skills and excellent passing range potentially alleviating some of the pressure on flair players like Mezut Ozil and Santi Cazorla.

With Arsenal still a safe bet for a top four finish at odds of 1/4, Halilovic could be the one to see them over the finish line in the Premier League.

All Odds and Markets are correct as of the date of publishing.

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