Earlier this summer, Arsene Wenger said the following: “I don’t really want to talk about [Geoffrey] Kondogbia too much because everyone’s after him at the moment.
When you ask ‘Are you also interested?’ what do you expect me to say?” (Source: Sky Sports)
Given the way that David Moyes has been following in Arsenal’s footsteps this summer (I’m referring to Manchester United’s interest in Cesc Fabregas), it’s perhaps not all that surprising that the Red Devils have joined the race for Sevilla star Geoffrey Kondogbia. (Source: The Star)
At just 20-years-old, ‘Geoff’ has already built an admirable reputation. The versatile defender can play as a centre-back or a left-back, but has predominantly been deployed as a defensive midfielder during his time in La Liga.
At 6 foot 3 inches tall, ‘Geoff’ cuts an imposing figure. The French ace uses his physicality well, competing for everything along the ground and winning anything in the air. Given his bulk, he also moves with surprising pace and is able to make up a lot of ground.
He really rose to prominence last season, where he made 31 appearances for Sevilla and didn’t look out of place despite his young age. It’s little wonder that big clubs like Arsenal and Manchester United are circling round him.
Unsurprisingly, Sevilla are playing hardball. The club’s president Jose Maria del Nido has said the following: “Kondogbia is not on the market – but whoever wants him has to pay his €20m (£17.2m) clause.
“But please, any team that tries to sign him – don’t. We will consider it an attack. I’ve already reached an agreement with Doyen and Kondogbia will not go this summer.”
Doyen is the investment firm who own a certain percentage of Kondogbia’s economic rights. They could be a potential hold-up in any attempts on Manchester United’s part to sign the player.
It’s interesting that Nido seems to be on the defensive here, but still places information regarding the player’s release clause into the public domain. If he wants to keep the player, shouldn’t he keep the information private?
It wouldn’t surprise me if Sevilla were willing to cash in on the good-will currently surrounding the player. Yes, United would have to pay a substantial sum to get their man, but it may well be worth it.
Kondogbia is one of the best young defensive talents in European football. His price-tag is likely to sky-rocket over the course of his next contract – surely that makes him a good investment?
What’s your take? Should David Moyes try and sign this La Liga hot-shot?
Please follow @ThePerfectPass for more football related action!
ThisisFutbol.com are seeking new writers to join the team! If you’re passionate about football, drop us a line at “thisisfutbol.com@snack-media.com” to learn more.
At first game of the season Wenger on the hot seat am soo sorry for this Man and Arsenal board you poepole are not doing any good thing at the transfer market at all also more damage to your boys no D/M in this team poor guuners. I don’t know why both Wenger and the Management are soo idiot in nature you better spend the cash beore is too late for you.
Wenger is killing arsenal football club he should be out by now