Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has shown a keen interest in securing a £40 million-rated defender, considering him the perfect addition to strengthen the squad.
This potential signing is part of Arsenal’s broader summer strategy to bolster their defensive lineup.
**Arsenal’s Defensive Strategy for the Summer**
The club aims to enhance its defensive depth by targeting both full-back and centre-back positions.
Sporting director Edu will spearhead this initiative, seeking to provide Arteta with more robust defensive options.
Ben White, who has transitioned into a right-back role since the 2022/2023 season following William Saliba’s impressive development, has performed admirably.
Despite earning a long-term contract in March, White acknowledges his defensive shortcomings.
Reflecting on his performance, he mentioned, “Some of the videos I have seen, maybe others don’t see it, but if I lost the runner or if I don’t do that, they will probably score. It comes back to doing anything to win.”
He further elaborated, “I know I’m not going to stop everyone and I know I’m not the best one-v-one defender, but I know I can do things to help the team in game situations against their winger.
Every game, normally the winger is the best player so it’s always a challenge and I have to do my homework and try and stop him.”
In light of these reflections, Arsenal is reportedly close to signing Ferdi Kadioglu as an alternative to White, with Edu also considering another centre-back.
Jurried Timber’s future remains uncertain due to his ACL injury, which sidelined him for the entire 2023/2024 season.
Should the deal for Kadioglu fall through, Arsenal is also eyeing Girona defender Yan Couto.
The Brazilian, currently on loan from Manchester City, is on Arsenal’s radar, with interest reportedly advised by a close confidant within the club. Reports from Tutto Juve also confirm this interest.
**Arteta’s Ideal Signing**
Privately, Arteta has identified Couto as the ideal signing to strengthen Arsenal’s right-back position.
However, the club faces stiff competition for the highly-rated defender from Juventus, Barcelona, and Manchester United.
The potential complications of City selling Couto to a Premier League rival could pose a challenge.
Nonetheless, City’s decision to allow Cole Palmer’s transfer to Chelsea last summer suggests they might consider selling Couto as well.
As Arsenal heads into the transfer window, the decisions made by Arteta and Edu regarding defensive reinforcements will be pivotal for the team’s success in the forthcoming season.
The club’s ability to secure top defensive talent will be crucial in solidifying their backline and enhancing their overall performance.
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