As things currently stand, Arsenal can call upon two good left backs: Spanish star, Nacho Monreal and England star, Kieran Gibbs. With these two providing competition for one another and playing rather well, is there really any need to sign anybody else in this area of the pitch?
Perhaps not, but the rumours keep on coming. The transfer window has been closed for a while now, but The Gunners have still been linked heavily to Real Madrid’s talented, but oft-forgotten left-back, Fabio Coentrao. In fact, according to The Metro, Arsenal are currently considering a £20m deal for the Portuguese ace.
Coentrao first arrived at The Bernabeu with a mammoth 30m euro price-tag, so he was expected to perform on a regular basis. He played a fair amount of games during his first season with Madrid, but has since been pushed out. He’s only played 13 times this season, which is disappointing for a player of his talent.
It wouldn’t surprise me if he were looking for an escape route and an opportunity for more regular football. Perhaps Arsenal could provide him with this?
Some fans may turn their noses up at this potential deal, especially given Carlo Ancelotti’s reluctance to play him. Despite his current status, there’s no doubt in my mind that he’s a top player. He’s lightning quick, he’s a willing runner and he’s got a nice cross on him. He’s better offensively than he is defensively, but he’s pretty good all-round. He’s probably a tad better than Arsenal’s current options.
Nacho Monreal is currently enjoying the best form of his career, so it’d be a shame to force him out, but Kieran Gibbs is a constant injury doubt. Perhaps bringing in another left back is the right decision. Besides, Arsene Wenger has previously noted that he sees Monreal as a potential centre-back. Signing Fabio Coentrao could open up a huge amount of versatility within Arsenal’s back-four.
With that in mind, maybe it’s worth paying that £20m transfer fee?
What’s your take? Should Arsenal snap up Real Madrid’s forgotten left-back?
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.