There was a time when Manchester United was the dream destination for many players. Robin van Persie left Arsenal for United and won the Premier League, for example. However, Sir Alex Ferguson retired after winning that title, and the Red Devils have been in decline ever since.
Now, a talented forward could sign for Arsenal instead of United. Karim Adeyemi has been linked with both teams, but CaughtOffside has reported that "despite United’s growing interest, the Borussia Dortmund forward is understood to prefer a move to Arsenal."
It is no surprise that Adeyemi would favor Arsenal over United. The Gunners are currently top of the Premier League and are second in the Champions League, only on goals scored. The Red Devils are as low as seventh in the division and are without any form of European soccer this season.
Adeyemi is a talented right-winger who can also operate in central attacking roles, including as a striker. The Gunners already have top options on the right wing, including Bukayo Saka, Noni Madueke, although he is currently injured, and the youngster, Max Dowman.
Do Arsenal need Borussia Dortmund's Karim Adeyemi?
Arsenal may need to strengthen their center-forward option. With Viktor Gyökeres missing in their last game before the international break, the midfielder, Mikel Merino, had to fill in at center-forward. Arsenal's other strikers, Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus, are also currently out of action.
Adeyemi has been used sparingly by Dortmund this season. However, he has still managed three goals, with three assists in 14 games in all competitions. The German international has so far followed the path of Erling Haaland, by going from Red Bull Salzburg to Dortmund. Haaland left Dortmund for the Premier League with Manchester City. Adeyemi could do the same, albeit by joining Arsenal.
During the recent international break, Adeyemi was called up by Germany. However, he did not play against Luxembourg due to suspension. The winger was then left on the bench in Die Mannschaft's final World Cup qualifying game against Slovakia.
It is unclear when a potential move to the Premier League could come about. It feels unlikely that an imminent move in January is on the cards. Dortmund will be in no rush to sell Adeyemi as he is currently contracted to them until 2027. Therefore, Adeyemi must ensure he gets regular game time and impresses at Dortmund if he is to ensure his place in Germany's squad for the World Cup next summer.