Arsenal and Chelsea have been put on high alert after defensive transfer target Benedikt Howedes admitted he could move to England in the future.
The German World Cup winner suggested Schalke was too close to his heart to ever play for a Bundesliga, and talked up a move to England. Both Arsenal and Chelsea hold previous interest in the defender and
Howedes told German newspaper Bild recently:
“I owe Schalke a lot. I have had a great experience during my time here. However, if I were to imagine moving abroad to experience a life in a foreign country, England would be my destination.”
Howedes is 6ft 2 and can play at full back or in the centre of the defence. His versatility would certainly come in handy, in an Arsenal squad that has often looked short of defensive options.
Despite the January signing of Gabriel Paulista, I wouldn’t rule out Arsene Wenger dipping back into the market for more defensive recruits in the summer. The Gunners have plenty of depth in midfield, but the same cannot be said for the defence. With Laurent Koscielny and Per Mertesacker approaching the latter stages of their careers, 26 year old Howedes could be a wise investment.
I think if Wenger wants to play with a high line, Howedes would suit that system much more than Mertesacker, whose time at the club may be limited, especially if another defender is signed. Koscielny appears to have shaken off an achilles problem, although there is a long term concern there.
Chelsea may be looking for a long term successor to John Terry, although Kurt Zouma’s recent form will have given Mourinho confidence that he can replace the Blues legend internally.
Do you think Howedes would be a worthwhile signing for Arsenal? Have your say by commenting below.