Why Arsenal NEED to target this £7m Chelsea mainstay:

Arsenal’s defense looked like a significantly improved unit last season. With Per Mertesacker and Laurent Koscielny running the game at the back, The Gunners had a solid base to build on when moving forward. Even when their attackers weren’t at their effervescent best, Arsenal were still able to stay in games. That hasn’t always been the case in recent years.

But it’s not like Arsenal’s defense was flawless. The Gunners still suffered big losses to top opposition like Chelsea, Liverpool and Manchester City. Moreover, Arsenal weren’t able to proceed in the Champions League because their defense looked a little nervy whilst under heavy pressure from Bayern Munich.

As it happens, The Gunners have started to pick up links to a Chelsea defender. The man in question is Branislav Ivanovic, a versatile option who could prove to be a good option for this Arsenal side. (Source: The Mirror)

After all, he’d come complete with bag-loads of Premier League experience. The man has made 269 appearances for Chelsea, over the course of 7 seasons. A lot of different managers have been in charge at Stamford Bridge during this time, but they’ve all backed Ivanovic. In the last 2 seasons alone, he’s made 109 appearances. He may be 30-years-old now, but he’s still very important to this Chelsea side.

Then there’s Branislav’s versatility. He can play as both a centre-back and a right-back. Given that Bacary Sagna is leaving The Gunners and that Thomas Vermaelen could also be moving on, Ivanovic’s adaptability could make him a perfect fit for The Gunners.

The aforementioned source claims that Ivanovic could be available for as little as £7m. If that’s true, then he’s available at a bargain price. I find it hard to believe that Jose Mourinho will be willing to let the player go on the cheap (especially to a rival), but it’s certainly worth testing the waters here.

Arsenal need somebody with Ivanovic’s experience and know-how. Let’s just hope that Chelsea are prepared to sell.

What’s your opinion? Would Branislav Ivanovic be the perfect signing for Arsenal? Are there any other options that The Gunners should consider?

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