With Arsenal looking to add some steel to their midfield, they’ve been linked to a number of different defensive options. Names like Sami Khedira, Morgan Schneiderlin and William Carvalho keep popping up. Internal solutions like Francis Coquelin have received the backing of the fans.
But what if none of these players are the right option (or at least, the best option)? What if Arsenal should be looking elsewhere?
This brings me to The Express‘s claim that Arsenal are interested in Roma’s midfield dynamo, Radja Nainggolan. The Belgian ace is renowned for his tough, competitive performances in the centre of the park. If he’s featuring in an opposition team, he’s going to make his presence felt.
He’s a strong tackler and a remarkable physical presence. When you combine these qualities with his natural athleticism, his pace on and off the ball and his neat range of passes, it’s clear that he’s a good option.
This explains why he’s had a £26m price-tag slapped over his forehead. This figure is slightly inflated due to the man’s contractual situation (Roma only part-own him), but it’s not far off of his fair market value. I’d argue that he’s just as good as the likes of Schneiderlin and Carvalho. He’s part of the seemingly unending slew of Belgian talent that’s drifting into Europe’s top leagues.
With Mikel Arteta and Mathieu Flamini both getting on in years, Arsene Wenger needs to do something. He can’t afford to sit still and let the competition steal ground from him. If Arsenal make one false move, there’s a good chance that they’ll drop out of the top four.
Nainggolan could help to keep them in contention for football’s top prizes. That alone may well justify his price-tag. Now we just need to see if Arsene Wenger is ready and willing to put pen to paper.
What’s your take? Have Liverpool found the ideal defensive midfield solution?
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