- Arsenal are reportedly monitoring a promising Ghanaian talent often likened to former Chelsea midfielder Michael Essien
- However, the Gunners may face Premier League competition from Bournemouth ahead of the January transfer window
- Both Mikel Arteta’s side and Bournemouth see the young prospect as one for the future
Arsenal are reportedly monitoring a fast-rising young Ghana talent who has drawn comparisons to Chelsea legend Michael Essien due to his powerful, energetic style of play.
After investing around £250 million in the summer to strengthen their squad, the Gunners are already seeing the rewards, sitting top of the Premier League after 11 matches.
Despite being well stocked in midfield, the north London side remain keen on adding elite prospects to bolster their long-term options.
Source: Getty Images
Arsenal, Bournemouth chase Ghana star
The Daily Mail reports that Arsenal are closely monitoring rising star Caleb Yirenkyi, who is having an impressive season in Denmark.
The 19-year-old, who is being valued at around £20million, is another graduate of the Right to Dream Academy in Ghana and is impressing in the Danish Superliga with Nordsjaelland.
The teenager initially featured as a right-sided midfielder and even made his international debut in May as a right-back.
Under Nordsjaelland manager Jens Fonsskov Olsen, Yirenkyi has undergone a major transformation, being converted into a defensive midfielder and thriving in his new role.
Much of the credit also goes to Michael Essien, who serves as assistant manager at the Danish club and has played a key role in helping the teenager adapt to his new position.
Yirenkyi’s evolution into a commanding number six has earned him comparisons to former Chelsea star Essien, attracting interest from top clubs like Arsenal.
The Ghanaian midfielder’s progress in the role has impressed fans and pundits alike, prompting frequent parallels with the Premier League legend.
Watch Caleb Yirenkyi’s highlights against South Korea:
Yirenkyi previously credits Essien’s guidance for much of his growth, saying via Sun Sports:
“Michael Essien impacts every player. He helps everyone at Nordsjaelland; we learn a lot from him.”
According to Sports Mole, the Gunners view the 19-year-old as a long-term prospect, though they may face competition from Premier League rivals AFC Bournemouth.
Source: Getty Images
Bournemouth can provide Yirenkyi with an immediate pathway to first-team football, and Andoni Iraola’s proven track record with developing young talent could heavily influence the midfielder’s next move.
Currently valued at around £20m, the Ghanaian youngster could prove to be a bargain for any Premier League club aiming to strengthen their midfield.
Meanwhile, Yirenkyi’s compatriot, Antoine Semenyo is being targeted by Liverpool and Tottenham for move away from Bournemouth in January.
A release clause is reportedly included in Semenyo’s new contract, set at around £65 million.
Why Essien is Ghana’s finest midfielder
Earlier, YEN.com.gh explored why Michael Essien is largely considered Ghana’s greatest ever midfielder ahead of the likes of Stephen Appiah and Sulley Muntari.
The Premier League legend achieved peerless success at Chelsea before taking his talent to Real Madrid and AC Milan.
Source: YEN.com.gh
Source: Yen.com.gh
