Mohammed Kudus stats compared to Saka, Rodrygo and Salah show he is exactly what Arsenal need

Mohammed Kudus remains a transfer target for Arsenal this summer despite interest from Chelsea - and his statistics for last season rank up there with the very best.

The Ghana international forward scored 18 goals in all competitions for Ajax last season, largely playing on the right of attack.

But his versatility is one of his key strengths, with the 22-year-old able to operate as an attacking midfielder and as a central striker.

A left-footed player, Kudus likes to cut inside and create chances or score goals himself, and he is also strong when it comes to offensive and aerial duels.

The Athletic reported on Saturday that Arsenal's Premier League rivals Chelsea have contacted Ajax over the possibility of the transfer.

But the Gunners are said to be keen, and RMC Sport's Fabrice Hawkins claims Chelsea have submitted a £35 million bid to sign winger Michael Olise from Crystal Palace.

That may leave the coast clear for Arsenal to sign Kudus - and they would certainly get value for money.

Arsenal target Kudus compared with Saka, Salah, Rodrygo

Kudus would likely arrive at the Emirates Stadium as direct competition for Bukayo Saka on the right side of Arsenal's attack, although he could be deployed elsewhere.

According to Opta's 'Performance Index' (via Squawka Comparison Matrix), Kudus ranked higher than Saka in their respective leagues last season in goals, goals inside the box and goals outside of the box - all per 90 minutes.

He was also stronger in terms of shots on target, successful long passes and successful duels.

Saka, meanwhile, had a higher conversion rate, created more chances per 90 minutes and recorded more assists.

The England star also attempted considerably more crosses, with 4.9 per 90 minutes compared to Kudus' 0.8. But the Ghanaian completed more take-ons, showing the difference in profile between the two players - and perhaps the quality of defences.

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Comparing the 22-year-old to different players, meanwhile, makes for interesting reading.

Real Madrid star Rodrygo, who also plays on the right side of attack, ranks comfortably higher than Kudus in passing metrics, and also completes more short passes and assists.

But the Ajax forward comes out on top on duels, both aerial and ground, as well as having more shots on target.

Compared to Liverpool star Mohamed Salah, meanwhile, Kudus ranks lower in terms of goals and chances created per 90 minutes.

But he has a higher conversion rate, more touches per 90 minutes (57.6 compared to 49) and more ball recoveries (5.5 to 2.8), shows how invaluable he can be in an aggressive pressing system as well.

Overall, he could be a crucial signing for Mikel Arteta's side - if they can get a deal over the line.

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