Arsenal have been linked with a move for RB Leipzig’s Tyler Adams ahead of what is expected to be a busy summer.
The Gunners are anticipated to be active in the market this window regarding both incomings and outgoings.
A number of moves already seem close to completion. football.london understands Arsenal midfielder Granit Xhaka has agreed a five-year contract with Italian giants AS Roma, whilst Andre Onana is very likely to be at the Emirates Stadium at some point throughout the summer.
The Athletic suggest that Mikel Arteta also has his eye on Adams, so football.london has taken a closer look at the player himself and what he would bring to the club should a move come to fruition this summer.
Who is Tyler Adams?
Adams is a 22-year-old utility man currently plying his trade with Bundesliga outfit RB Leipzig.
Born in Wappingers Falls, Adams, who is capable of playing both in midfield and at right-back, has accumulated 14 appearances for his country.
What has he done so far?
It’s been a meteoric rise for the young American throughout his so far fledgling career.
Joining the Red Bulls Academy in 2011, the youngster moved through the various age groups with the American club before being handed his first professional contract. From there, he represented New York Red Bulls’ second team in the United Soccer League, spending two seasons harnessing his skills.
It was not long before he was granted an opportunity with the first team, his first outing being a friendly appearance against Chelsea.
Adams became a first-team regular and played a key role as the club secured the MLS Supporters’ Shield in 2018.
His performances in the US caught the attentions of RB Leipzig and he eventually moved to Germany in January 2019.
Adams made 12 appearances in his first campaign before falling down the pecking order with just 17 appearances in his first full season. However, he regained his place last term with 37 appearances in all competitions and proved to be a valuable player.
Why would Arsenal want him?
His versatility would certainly make him an attractive option for Edu and Arteta. The Gunners need a few midfield recruits especially if Granit Xhaka, Matteo Guendouzi and Lucas Torreira are all allowed to leave permanently.
Meanwhile, Arsenal also need competition at right-back with Hector Bellerin’s future looking somewhat uncertain.
Considering his current trajectory, Adams would certainly be an extremely competent option for the squad.
Meanwhile, from a purely financial standpoint, the signing of an American international would also be a very useful marketing exercise for the club’s current owners, the Kroenke family.
What has been said about him?
RB Salzburg Head Coach, Jesse Marsch, who managed Adams in New York, has been full of praise for the player and envisaged his rise from an early age.
He said: "The first player I ever coached who I saw that in was Tyler Adams. I watched him play, had a 10-minute conversation with him after that game and said to myself, 'This kid is going to be massive'.
“He was only 15 but it was so easy to see that he had all the tools, mostly from a mental and intelligence perspective, to do whatever it takes."
