According to the Evening Standard, Arsenal have made other clubs aware that they’re willing to listen to offers for Danny Welbeck this summer.

What’s the story?

Welbeck is now in the final year of his current contract with Arsenal, meaning that if he isn’t moved on, or offered agreeable new terms, then he will be able to leave the club on a free transfer next summer.

The English striker retains some value in the market, so it would not be wise for the Gunners to allow him to depart as a free agent in a year’s time.

However, there could be an important role for Welbeck to play in Unai Emery’s squad if he does stick around.

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Having a part to play

Arsenal look to have done good business this summer, and have smartly improved areas of long-standing weakness within their team. However, they still lack depth in wide areas of the pitch. As it stands, Welbeck is the most senior naturally suited wide-player in the squad. 

Welbeck’s versatility could well prove very useful to Emery as the new manager seeks to navigate his squad through a campaign featuring Europa League football on top of the usual domestic commitments. 

Not only is Welbeck versatile, he also has the quality to be particularly effective within Emery’s preferred playing style too. The England man’s pace, relentless energy, exemplary work ethic and smart running could become a real asset within Emery’s high-pressing tactic.

The 27-year-old will never become the prolific striker that many hoped he would. He can still upset opposition defences and do a big job for his team though.

With so little of the transfer window left to find a replacement in, Arsenal shouldn’t allow themselves to lose Welbeck’s qualities from their squad. If they can convince the forward to sign a one-year extension, and let him go early next summer instead, then that is a solution that should work for everyone.