Arsenal poised to challenge Newcastle for prolific international hitman
After the news emerged that Newcastle United were taking a look at the CSKA striker, Seydou Doumbia is now being linked with a move to North London with Arsenal said to be taking an interest.
Arsenal have been leaving a majority of the striking duties up to captain Robin van Persie this season, with Gervinho missing a portion of the campaign either through suspension or injury.
Doumbia is attracting a number of European clubs and understandably so. Before completing his move to Russia, the forward enjoyed an extremely successful spell in Switzerland with Young Boys, scoring 50 goals in only 64 games with the side.
The 23 year-old has carried similar form to the Russian Premier League, netting 24 times in 37 appearances.
Although he would be cup-tied for the Champions League after featuring for CSKA Moscow already this year, Arsene Wenger would be hoping that the goalscorer would be able to emulate his past form in the Premier League should a move materialise.
After losing playmakers Samir Nasri and Cesc Fabregas, the Gunners have been lacking an attacking flair this season and Doumbia could provide the key to reviving past success the club has seen when on the offensive.
The highly-rated attacker will surely present a valuable asset wherever he plays given his scoring record so far, but if Newcastle or Arsenal complete a deal for Doumbia, he is expected to cost around £15-20m.
