Ajinfenwa: I don t understand why the Gunners didn t sign Drapp, 30 million pounds is nothing

Sports     6:17pm, 1 June 2025

Recently, former English Championship legend Akinfenwa talked about Drapp's transfer in an interview with talksport. He did not understand why Arsenal, who urgently needed a striker, did not sign him.

Although Ipswich was unfortunately relegated, Drapp's outstanding performance attracted the attention of many Premier League giants. It is reported that Manchester United and Newcastle are interested in the 22-year-old striker, but Chelsea eventually signed him successfully.

Drapp had a £30m termination clause and negotiated with Manchester United, Newcastle and Everton, but he ended up choosing Chelsea as the Blues could offer Champions League opportunities. In addition, Drapp will also reunite with his old coach Maresca during his youth training at Manchester City.

However, Akinfinwa is puzzled by Arsenal's failure to sign Drapp. He believes that £30 million is a very good price for a Gunner who needs a striker.

Akinfenwa even compared Drapp to former Premier League star Diego Costa, and believed that he was the ideal candidate for Arteta to lead the team to the championship: "I don't understand why Arsenal didn't sign him. When you need a striker, £30 million is nothing in today's market. Drapp has the potential to become Harry Kane's successor and is a real No. 9 player."

Akinfenwa also said that Drapp is not only skilled, but also has the temperament of an old-school striker, which can pose a great threat to his opponent. He believes that Drapp's joining Chelsea is a wise choice because there is a chance to be a starting center and play with great players such as Palmer, which is expected to further improve his goals.

He concluded: "I think this is a very good signing, I just don't understand why Arsenal didn't actively promote the transfer."