According to ESPN, Arsenal failed in their attempt to sign Ousmane Dembele due to Barcelona's reluctance to sell, but they should have been focusing on Boca Juniors winger Cristian Pavon.

What's the word?

Manager Unai Emery recruited five new signings before Thursday's transfer deadline, but there were two positions he failed to strengthen.

Widespread reports suggested that the Spaniard was hoping to land a winger and centre-back, but neither came through the welcome gates at the Emirates.

Dembele emerged as a target in the final few weeks of the window, but according to ESPN, Barcelona did not entertain an offer.

Instead, Arsenal should have spent their time trying to secure a deal for Cristian Pavon, who they were linked to in January.

Why was Pavon a better target?

This isn't necessarily related to quality as Dembele is arguably a 'bigger' signing, so to speak.

However, Pavon - valued at £18m by Transfermarkt - would have been more attainable than a player who cost Barcelona close to £100m last summer.

The Argentina international may only be 22, but he has already shown on the global stage that he can cause problems down the right-hand side.

Pavon has pace and skill, and would have certainly added an extra dimension to Arsenal's attack.

The young player is also able to play on the left-hand side or up front, providing plenty of versatility.

If Pavon becomes available in January, then Emery should think about making a move.

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