Arsenal Transfer Watch: Three potential centre-backs to replace Mustafi
Published:
German international to sign for Inter?
After a brief spell in North London, it looks like Arsenal defender Shkodran Mustafi is on his way to Inter Milan.
The German international has failed to settle at the Emirates with the Serie A giants ready to swoop, initially on a season-long loan with a view to a permanent deal for around £30m.
With the inexperienced Rob Holding also struggling, Arsene Wenger will need to delve into the transfer market for reinforcements.
If he’s looking for any potential stars, the Coral News team are at hand with some suggestions.
Jonny Evans
It’s being reported that the Gunners won’t sign off on Mustafi’s departure until they can guarantee the signing of West Bromwich Albion’s Jonny Evans.
The former Manchester United man has hugely impressed at the heart of the Baggies defence since his move from Old Trafford with Manchester City also seeing a bid of £18m turned down.
As solid and dependable as they come, the Northern Ireland international would be the Coral News team’s top choice.
Virgil van Dijk
Southampton defender Virgil van Dijk is another no-brainer, frankly. Big, powerful and technically excellent with the ball at his feet, he ticks all the boxes for Arsene Wenger.
It’s not that surprising, but like N’Golo Kante before him, it’s remarkable that ‘Le Professeur’ hasn’t already bid for the Dutchman.
It’s possible the £50m fee could a barrier considering how tight the Frenchman clasps the purse strings. But Van Dijk is definitely worth the outlay in today’s market.
Kalidou Koulibaly
Arsenal have a long history of physically imposing, ball-winning defenders with the ability to pass the ball out from the back.
Think Tony Adams, Sol Campbell, William Gallas, and most recently, Laurent Koscielny. One of the best exponents of those aforementioned virtues is Napoli’s Kalidou Koulibaly.
One of the most powerful defenders in world football, the Senegalese international would cost in the region of £50m. But he would be worth every penny.
Physically unbeatable, rapid across 20-30 yards and now tactically developed under the brilliant Mauricio Sarri, the 26-year-old would hugely improve the Gunners’ defence.
Click here for all the latest transfer betting odds.
All Odds and Markets are correct as of the date of publishing
