After conceding soft goals against Chelsea last weekend and again against Olympiakos in the Champions League, Arsene Wenger may turn his attention to the Swiss league and in particular FC Basel’s Aleksandar Dragovic.
The 21-year-old Austrian international is highly regarded in Switzerland and the rumours have been growing that Arsenal are tracking his progress.
Dragovic is a strong, confident defender and already has 14 international caps to his name. The Gunners reportedly face competition from Valencia for the Austrian’s signature and at 7 million euros, he would prove to be a real bargain.
However, having only joined Basel in 2011, they may not be keen to let him go. In his first season at the club, Dragovic enjoyed success as Basel lifted both the Swiss League title and Swiss Cup. He also played for Basel last season when they famously knocked Manchester United out of the Champions League.
Physically dominant and talented, it is believed that the Gunners sent scouts to watch Basel play Sporting Lisbon earlier this season in order to track Dragovic’s progress. Arsene will be looking to strengthen his defensive options, with Squillaci and Djourou deemed as surplus to requirements.
Dragovic will provide much needed cover for Vermaelen, Mertesacker and Koscielny and there aren’t many better places where he can continue his development and become the player his talent suggests.
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