Arsenal willing to pay €50m for striker 'who can do more than Erling Haaland'

Arsenal are reportedly keen on signing Atalanta striker Rasmus Hojlund, who has been compared to Erling Haaland.

The 20-year-old is enjoying a prolific campaign in Serie A, having helped himself to seven league goals, despite only breaking into the starting eleven after the World Cup.

He only joined Atalanta last year, but Hojlund's form hasn't gone unnoticed, with Arsenal and Real Madrid said to be keeping tabs on the striker.

A report from Tutto Atalanta has revealed several clubs are keen on signing the Dane, and the Gunners are leading the race.

The report claims that the Premier League leaders are prepared to pay around €50m to help lure him to the Emirates.

"He can do more than Haaland"

Given his name, stature, and the fact he hails from Scandinavian heritage, Hojlund has been compared to Manchester City superstar Haaland.

Whilst former Leeds winger Mike Grella reckons comparisons between the pair may be going overboard, he admitted Hojlund “can do more than Haaland”.

“I will take the comparison with Haaland very lightly, because he is one of the best,” Grella explained.

“There is also a slight difference between them, which speaks in Hojlund’s favour.

“He can do more than Haaland. Haaland is more the type who duels with the centre-backs and just scores lots of goals.

“Hojlund can dribble past an opponent. He can keep the ball better. Hojlund can better help the team on the edge (of the penalty box) or deeper in the pitch.”

Meanwhile, his former manager Sturm Graz has backed the comparisons, reckoning they have similar characteristics.

“There can be a comparison between Rasmus and Erling Haaland,” Ilzer said. “In some characteristics, they are similar.

“Both are very fast, they also share determination and the desire to always score. Both Hojlund and Haaland are two very positive youngsters and have great confidence in their abilities.”