Arsenal could finally sign ‘next Luka Modric’ following years of waiting as player align for Edu
In light of Orkun Kokcu’s impending departure from Feyenoord, Arsenal’s transfer chief Edu may soon be able to act on the Gunners’ long-term interest.
Although he is not yet a household name throughout Europe, the youngster is beginning to justify the early comparisons to Ballon d’Or-winner Luka Modric.
Two years after making his senior debut in 2018, Arsenal was already well aware of Kokcu’s abilities. The midfielder, who was still a teenager at the time, reportedly held discussions, but a transfer to the Emirates Stadium never occurred.
If there were any lingering doubts as to whether the Turkey international could handle the rigors of the Premier League at the time, they may no longer exist as he continues to improve with the Dutch powerhouse Feyenoord.
Still only 22 years old, Kokcu is the captain of Arne Slot’s Eredivisie-leading side, where his 12 goals in all competitions have a significant impact on high-level matches.
While Kokcu’s increasing value could make it more difficult to secure his signature this summer, the fact that he is approaching the final two years of his contract makes him an option for Edu.
In addition, the possibility of Arsenal winning the Premier League should make it easy for Arsenal to convince the player to sign.
Those who have followed Kokcu’s career since his youth are aware of his talent, and former Liverpool midfielder Momo Sissoko once compared him to Luka Modric.
Gunners fans would welcome the acquisition of a younger version of the Real Madrid veteran, even if he still has a ways to go to live up to that comparison.
Ronald de Boer, a former Netherlands international, is among those who have praised Gokhan Kokcu this season, and crucially for Arsenal, de Boer believes that Kokcu’s departure is imminent.
“He is certainly leaving Feyenoord for a very large amount,” he predicted. “I think he is also difficult to keep.
“He has seen the light. You have to make sure you have an athlete’s body. He has that now. You can see from everything that the boy is so comfortable in his own skin. He looks incredibly fit. That is why he is having such a great season, because he can of course play great football.”
Kokcu, a talented but affordable player valued at £26 million, could be crucial for Arsenal to save funds for a number of their more expensive targets this summer if they can secure his services.
Mikel Arteta is rumored to be a huge admirer of Declan Rice, but West Ham is expected to demand more than £100 million for the England international.
Meanwhile, Everton’s Amadou Onana reportedly has a £62 million asking price, and Arsenal’s final January offer for Brighton’s Moises Caicedo reached £70 million.
Arsenal could finally sign ‘next Luka Modric’ following years of waiting as player align for Edu
