Arsenal and Aston Villa step up interest in Onuachu ahead of January transfer window

ENGLISH Premier League sides Arsenal and Aston Villa have stepped up their interest in Nigerian striker Paul Onuachu ahead of the impending January transfer window with a view to signing him when the ban on purchases is lifted on December 31.

Onuachu, 27, has scored 39 goals in 45 league appearances for his Belgian team Genk so far and this season, he has banged in 18 goals in all competitions. According to Italian publication Corriere dello Sport, Onuachu is attracting interest from many clubs across England and Europe, with the English two leading the way.

Over the last two seasons, Onuachu has been sensational for Genk since he broke into the first team, after signing from FC Midtjylland, with his goalscoring numbers becoming stunning year after year. Based on his Belgian league statistics, he does offer plenty of promise, although it would be a tricky decision to choose between the many interested clubs.

Arsenal are looking for a striker to offset the probable departures of Alexandre Lacazette and Eddie Nketiah and Onuachu could be a good option for manager Mikel Arteta. Aston Villa are also interested in Onuachu as they have struggled for goals, so might move for him in the January window to prise him away before the big clubs potentially swoop during the summer.

Ollie Watkins and summer signing Danny Ings have been paired regularly up front this season for Villa, without much effect. As a result, manager Dean Smith might be tempted to bring in another option, possibly as a backup to their existing players.

Aston Villa could be a good stepping stone for Onuachu before he signs for a bigger side, either in the Premier League or Europe. Onuachu currently has an existing contract until 2024 and Genk will demand a substantial transfer fee for the striker, which is what will ultimately determine where he goes.