As a result of Arsenal’s defensive issues this season, Arsene Wenger has been linked with moves to some big defensive talent. In the run-up to the January transfer window, we’ve heard various sources suggest that The Gunners are on the hunt for players like Mats Hummels, Ron Vlaar and Winston Reid.
But the name that keeps getting mentioned in conjunction with a move to The Emirates is that which belongs to Celtic star Virgil Van Dijk. Their has to be a reason why the papers keep cooking up these stories.
Ever since his £2.6m move to Celtic back in the summer of 2013, Van Dijk has proven to be a cut above his Scottish Premier League colleagues. He’s a tall, physically strong defender who works extremely hard, takes up smart positions and stays diligent throughout every game that he’s involved in. He’s not accustomed to making careless errors and his distribution from the back is pretty good.
It’s easy to see why Arsene Wenger might be interested. There aren’t that many top class centre-backs out there, but I’d argue that this particular Dutchman qualifies. What’s more, The Express suggests that he could cost as little as £10m.
Unfortunately, this leads me onto a bit of bad news. According to Celtic manager Ronny Delia, Van Dijk will not be leaving his club this January. Check out his comments here:
“He’s very happy. I have spoken with him and we are very happy to keep him as well. He’s a top player. I am so happy to have him. He is enjoying his football, playing well. That’s positive. He is such an important player for us. He has learned a lot from August. It’s not the first time a player has been affected. Others have been through these things as well.”
Delia is keen to paint a picture of Virgil Van Dijk as a contented man. On the face of things, it doesn’t look like he’ll leave the Scottish Premier League during this current iteration of the transfer window.
But Arsenal need a defender. They desperately need a centre-back of his level of quality. With that in mind, I wouldn’t be surprised to see Arsene Wenger pursue this deal. Perhaps a big enough offer could force Celtic, Ronny Delia and Van Dijk to change their tune?
With a lack of other quality options, it has to be worth a go.
What’s your take? Can The Gunners still close a deal for Virgil Van Dijk?
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