Arsenal are keen to sign Chelsea outcast Gary Cahill in the January window as they look to recruit an experienced centre-back, according to ESPN FC.
The football site claim the north Londoners have identified Cahill, 32, and Manchester United defender Eric Bailly, 24, as potential replacements for the injured Rob Holding.
ESPN FC report Cahill is set to leave Chelsea on loan next month after being told he can find a new club following a campaign spent predominantly on the sidelines.
Good move for Arsenal?
Gooners will undoubtedly be feeling underwhelmed if Cahill rocks up at Emirates Stadium in January. The 61-times England international may be a two-times Premier League winner, who has also won the Champions League, but he has slipped down the pecking order at Stamford Bridge under Maurizio Sarri. Cahill has had just 21 minutes of Premier League action this season and has become a Thursday night specialist, emerging only for Europa League commitments. That said, as a short-term solution, Cahill might be a decent option. Holding is out for rest of the season after tearing his anterior cruciate ligament and the former Bolton man is an experienced head who could slot into Arsenal’s back three when needed.
This Is Futbol rating 5/10
Likely to happen?
There’s a good chance, especially if Unai Emery wants Cahill enough. He is available and, assuming Arsenal would be willing to pay all or the majority of his salary, this is a deal that makes sense. Much will also depend upon whether the defender will be willing to join another club where he might not be a regular starter.
This Is Futbol rating 5/10