Thursday, March 28, 2024

Arsenal Have ‘Extensively Scouted’ Centre Backs: Summer Move Possible

Arsenal have extensively scouted centre backs and central midfielders ahead of potential summer reinforcements. 

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Jeremy Wilson from The Telegraph reported on Wednesday:

Central midfield and central defence are positions that have been extensively scouted but much will also depend upon departures, with David Ospina, Lukas Podolski, Joel Campbell and Mathieu Debuchy all available at the right price.

Ezequiel Garay has been linked recently. Garay has had a good season in Russia but the 28 year old is now reportedly open to moving to England, with Arsenal and Manchester United linked with bids.

Garay has also impressed in this summers Copa America, leading Argentina to the final of the competition where he will soon come up against Alexis Sanchez’ Chile. At 28 though, I don’t see the sense in signing Garay. Mertesacker and Koscielny are 29 and 30, so I think we’d go for someone a bit younger.

Gabriel Paulista (24) joined in January and Calum Chambers (20) is also considered a long term option at centre back.

Apart from Garay I haven’t seen us linked to many centre backs, and finding one of top quality is very hard these days.

I know Arsenal are very interested in Juventus centre back Daniele Rugani – who spent last season out on loan at Empoli. The 20 year old was a first team regular at Empoli, playing in all 38 league games. He was also very impressive for Italy in the under 21 European Championships this summer.

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Juventus may be willing to listen to offers for him, as they are eyeing up a move for Mehdi Benatia this summer.

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