Ioannis Stokka is only 18 years old, but shockingly, he has been playing first-team for four years. Now he's played more often and he's already piqued the interest of Arteta's Arsenal, with the Gunners seeing him as a potential replacement for Lacazette or Aubameyang. Stoika can play anywhere on the attacking line, whether it's a centre-forward, a winger or even an offensive midfielder. Multiple reports in Romania say the Gunners are very fond of the striker. Known for his super-fast start-up speed, he could become Aubameyang's successor.
Stoika made his first appearance for the Bucharest Stars (FCSB) at the age of 14 and scored a goal in the cup win over Sn tatea Cluj 6-1. This is partly indicative of the talent he possessed and the belief he had shown at such a young age. Last season he went on loan to CSM Slatina, scoring seven goals and assisting five in 24 games, prompting the FCSB to recall him this year. In the first 12 games of the 2021-22 season, he scored 4 goals and assisted 2 goals, which is a rather encouraging performance for such a young player.
Asked in an interview which player he compares himself to, Stokka himself replied: "I think it's Mbappe. FCSB boss Gigi Becali is confident and a big fan of Stoika. He told the media: "Arsenal's focus on Iannis is a good thing, but it doesn't make any sense because he's not for sale. He may move in a year or two, but now is not the best time. He was skilled, physically strong and very intelligent. Look at him and you'd think he's 23 instead of 18. He has over 50 first-team appearances and is certainly experienced relative to his age, and he has time to be on his side. "For now, Arsenal are Stoic's only suitors. However, if he continues to grow, more clubs may be interested in him.