Given that Arsenal have lost Johan Djourou, Carl Jenkinson, Bacary Sagna and Thomas Vermaelen this summer, Arsene Wenger has been surprisingly lax when it comes to signing up fresh new defensive talent.
Sure, he’s brought in both Calum Chambers and Mathieu Debuchy, but this dynamic duo won’t be enough if Arsenal hope to compete for the Premier League title this season.
Whilst most fans will be hoping for a big name signing, perhaps it’s better to remain realistic. What Arsenal need more than anything else is a third choice centre-back. They need somebody who can fill in when Laurent Koscielny or Per Mertesacker are otherwise engaged.
If one of Arsenal’s current first-choice centre-back pairing pick up an injury or a long-term suspension, The Gunners need somebody reliable they can call upon. Calum Chambers could be that man, but he may also be needed as a right-back, or in the centre-of-the-park. At the moment, Arsene Wenger’s defense just isn’t flexible enough.
It’s a long season. Arsenal need to make sure that they are properly prepared for everything that’s to come.
It does look as though Arsenal are on the hunt for options. For instance, The Mirror claim that Arsenal are stalking Toby Alderweireld (their choice of words, not mine), Atletico Madrid’s top class centre-back..
The Belgian international was a regular performer for Ajax, before earning a move to Madrid last summer. Since then, he’s struggled to hold down a first team place for the La Liga title winners.
As a result, he could be available for as little as £6m. Quality defensive options are rarely available for prices this low. If these rumours are true, then surely The Gunners would be foolish not to act?
Toby Alderweireld is a strong defensive presence, who’s great in the air and quick along the ground. He’s a smart cookie and I have little doubt that he’d make a mark in the Premier League, were he given a proper shot.
Let’s just hope that Arsenal are ready and willing to wrap up a deal – and quick!
What’s your take? Where does Toby Alderweireld’s future lie?
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Arsen wenga please sign more player