Arsenal had a productive summer transfer window with eight signings.
The Gunners spent more than £260 million on bolstering multiple positions.
Martin Zubimendi and Christian Norgaard were signed to strengthen the midfield department, and The Athletic claim that sporting director Andrea Berta played a key role in recruiting the latter.
It is reported that Berta wanted an ‘oven-ready and experienced’ replacement after Thomas Partey’s exit. This contributed to the decision to sign Norgaard over Sevilla star Lucien Agoume.
Berta made the right choice with Norgaard
Norgaard was an unsung hero during his time with Brentford. The Denmark international won 55 percent of his duels in the Premier League last season with 5.7 recoveries, 2.3 tackles and 1.9 clearances per game.
The 31-year-old also made timely interceptions for the Bees. He chipped in with five goals and four assists in the league. All of those came from set-piece situations at the west London outfit.
His vast Premier League experience and leadership skills as a captain made him a no-brainer signing.
Agoume, on the other hand, is still learning his trade. The 23-year-old made 35 appearances last season for Sevilla, which was the highest managed in a single campaign in his young career.
The Frenchman won 54 percent of his duels with 3.9 recoveries, two tackles and 1.1 clearances per La Liga game. His statistics are not far off from Norgaard, but the Premier League is a different ball game.
Agoume would have required to adapt to the higher intensity and physicality of the division. Hence, Arsenal made the right choice to purchase Norgaard from the Bees earlier this summer.
He has yet to make his debut after a pre-season injury, but could do so after the international break.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com & Sofascore.com
