Following the departure of Lukasz Fabianski to Swansea City, Arsenal have been linked with various Goalkeepers recently. The latest name to be mentioned is Levante’s 27 year old stopper Keylor Navas who’s stock has risen considerably during Costa Rica’s recent World Cup exploits. The Mirror claim that Navas’ release clause currently stands at around £8 million and that The Gunners are contemplating making a move.
Considering his age and World Cup performances, Navas would certainly give Szczesny some stiff competition for the number 1 jersey. His performances last year in La Liga also lead to him being mentioned with the likes of Victor Valdes and Thibaut Courtois as the leagues top goalkeeper. Whether he is happy to join a club where he risks playing second fiddle remains to be seen.
Personally I would much rather see an experienced Premier League keeper come in and not only provide reliable backup for Wojciech, but also mentor and tutor the 24 year old Polish international. Perhaps someone similar, if not a bit younger, to Mark Schwarzer who signed for Chelsea last year.
It would also be very unlike Wenger to bring someone in who could realistically replace Szczesny as the first choice keeper. Arsene is renowned, and often criticised, for his loyalty to youngsters and considering the faith he has shown in Wojciech in the past few years, I would be shocked if he did anything now which could potentially stunt his development. An experienced keeper who was happy to be a number 2 would seem a much more realistic and viable option.