“I am sure”: Rooney tells Arsenal to sign “extraordinary” £40m striker amid Man Utd interest | OneFootball

Arsenal shared the spoils against Manchester United in the Premier League on Sunday.

The Gunners were the dominant side in the opening half at Old Trafford but lacked the cutting edge in the final third.

Bruno Fernandes eventually broke the deadlock for the hosts with a sublime free-kick before the half-time whistle.

Arsenal toiled hard and bagged the equaliser through Declan Rice after the break, but they were lucky to pick up a draw.

David Raya made world-class saves to deny Noussair Mazraoui and Fernandes from finding the back of the net.

Rice and Magalhaes also made last-ditch challenges on Rasmus Hojlund.

Meanwhile, Arsenal and United have been linked with Crystal Palace striker Jean-Philippe Mateta lately, as per BBC Sport.

Speaking on Match of the Day 2, United legend Wayne Rooney said that Arsenal should consider signing the Frenchman.

The 39-year-old added that Mateta is a big and strong striker and would benefit from the crosses put into the box by Arsenal.

He said: “Mateta is a big, strong lad who scores a lot of goals. From watching Arsenal over the past few games in the Premier League, they have put a lot of balls into the box without having anyone to get on the end of them. I am sure he would help from that point of view.”

Mateta has been in brilliant form for the Eagles, particularly after the appointment of Oliver Glasner as their manager.

The former Mainz man netted 16 goals in the top-flight last term. He started the current season slowly after his participation for France at the Olympic games.

He has still scored 12 goals for the league campaign, including eight in his last eight appearances.

At 27, Mateta is in the prime of his playing career and can score with either foot. He also provides a strong aerial and physical presence in and around the box.

Despite this, we would be surprised if Arsenal contemplate a move for his services.

Mateta, described as ‘extraordinary‘ by journalist Rory Smith, is not known for his ball-playing ability. He averages just 8.7 passes per game at Palace this season.

The £40 million-rated star has won only 38 percent of his ground and aerial duels. Despite Mateta’s recent track record, Arsenal could prefer other options.

The focus could be on pursuing a younger striker with valuable experience. Arsenal are more likely to return for RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko this summer.

The Slovenian ace has formally agreed an affordable release clause in his contract. The Gunners could make a serious effort to land him after last year’s failure.

Stats from Transfermarkt.com & Sofascore.com