With Internacional’s Chile midfielder Charles Aranguiz describing a possible transfer to Arsenal as a “dream” in the Daily Mirror, here’s a list of five facts Gunners fans should read to know a little more about the player who could be pulling the strings in their side next season…
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1) Left-footed playmaker
He’s not the biggest name out there, so here are some basics to start off: Aranguiz is a left-footed central midfield playmaker with an eye for a killer pass and the occasional goal, though he has not been particularly prolific throughout his career so far and is likely being targeted by Arsenal to play in a slightly defensive role alongside Francis Coquelin.
2) Scored against Spain at the World Cup
One of the biggest goals of his career no doubt came against Spain at last summer’s World Cup as Chile shocked the reigning world champions with a highly impressive 2-0 win to knock La Roja out of the tournament. Chile were generally impressive throughout their time in Brazil, until they were narrowly knocked out by the host nation on penalties.
3) Once managed 19 goals in a season
Aranguiz has only hit double figures in a season once in his career so far, but he did manage an excellent 19 goals from the middle of the park for Universidad de Chile in 2013.
4) Briefly signed for Granada
Although he has never played in Europe, Aranguiz was briefly signed by La Liga side Granada, though he never kicked a ball for the club before being immediately loaned out to Brazilian club Internacional. His loan move later became a permanent one and he is still with the team for the time being.
5) Footballing family
Possibly inspired to get into football by his family, Aranguiz’s mother is a footballing coach and may well have played a part in the player joining his first academy when he was just 13 years old.