Tuesday, March 19, 2024

World class defender wants to join Arsenal ahead of Tottenham and Manchester City

Arsenal are amongst a number of clubs looking to sign Dani Alves for free this summer, after the Brazilian’s contract at PSG expired.

Mundo Deportivo were the first source to report the news that three Premier League clubs were taking an interest in the Alves situation.

According to The Sun, Alves would prefer a reunion with Unai Emery rather than going to Manchester City or Tottenham, who have both also been linked with a move for the Brazilian.

It’s possible that Arsenal’s recent appointment of Edu Gaspar may also influence the players decision, as the duo have worked together at the Brazil national team.

Alves earned ÂŁ230,000-a-week at PSG before rejecting their offer of a one-year extension last month, instead wanting a two-year deal. Arsenal are unlikely to offer such a high amount, but they could be willing to offer two years, with back up for Hector Bellerin needed in the squad.

Alves, 36, showed no signs of being over the hill with a series of impressive performances for Brazil at Copa America this summer, where his nation won the tournament.

Alves is a player that would bring so much to the squad both on and off the pitch, with his winning experience vital. He would add some much needed maturity to Arsenal’s backline as well as attacking invention on the right hand side, something the Gunners really lacked in Bellerin’s absence.

The likes of Carl Jenkinson do need to be removed from the wage bill in order to allow for Arsenal to offer these kinds of contracts. Other high earners like Sead Kolasinac should be considered as dispensable by the club.

Arsenal and their fans want several arrivals this summer but the reality is some players do need to leave before lots can come in.

Ainsley Maitland-Niles has been deputising for Bellerin in his absence but the Englishman is not the most comfortable on the right side of the defence, with it well known that his favourite position is in midfield.

 

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