Arsenal are ready to replace Vermaelen by making a £16million bid for Manchester City defender Matija Nastasić according to the Daily Mail. The 21-year-old defender had an injury plagued season, but still helped his side to the Premier League title. However with Mangala arriving from Portugal, the Serbian could be allowed to leave.
Arsenal’s current crop of three centre backs are all approaching their 30’s and some young talent in this area is clearly needed to ensure a smooth transition occurs. Nastasic, whilst being young, is also experienced in both the Champions League and the Premier League – making him a perfect addition for the Gunners.
It seems to be Arsenal’s approach in the transfer market recently, to take advantage of others lunacy. Real Madrid shifted Ozil and Barcelona Sanchez without a second thought to make way for others, Manchester City are making a similar decision by bringing in Mangala and selling Nastasic, who was developing well at the club.
As the only real source for this rumour is the Daily Mail, we will wait to see how much truth their is to this one. It would be silly to think Arsene Wenger does not have one eye on Manchester City at the minute, but it could be equally as silly to consider Pellegrini wanting to improve his Premier League rivals, however all the bets at William Hill see Arsenal as fourth favourite for the title.
Nastasic joined Manchester City for £11million plus Stefan Savic in 2012, and a bid of £16million would reflect similar value.