Arsenal’s shortcomings in defence were exposed ruthlessly by Liverpool at the weekend.

The Gunners took the lead early through Ainsley Maitland-Niles, however, their advantage was short-lived as Roberto Firmino cut through their defence with ease to score twice in 90 seconds. Sokratis lost Mohamed Salah before fouling him in the box - the Egyptian slotted the resulting spot kick. Sloppy defending also allowed Sadio Mane to score with Firmino completing the rout for his hat-trick in the second half.

Unai Emery’s side looked dangerous in attack despite Virgil van Dijk keeping Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang quiet, but it was their defensive performance that let them down yet again. Not for the first time, Stephan Lichtsteiner was all over the place at the back, and the Gunners have sorely missed Hector Bellerin. Signing a replacement for the Swiss international should be considered in January.

One man the former PSG boss could target is Roma full-back – Alessandro Florenzi. Valued at £27m by Transfermarkt, the Italian has been a mainstay in the Roma defence since joining on the cheap from Crotone back in 2012. After recent troubles with injury, Florenzi has been a key player for his side once again, making 16 appearances in the Serie A so far.

The 27-year-old loves to get forward and help his side in the attacking third, scoring two goals and registering one assist already this season. Florenzi has the pace to keep up with the quickest of attackers and excellent crossing ability which will have Aubameyang licking his lips in the attack. The Italy international is also versatile, which will no doubt attract Emery, and is capable at playing central midfield giving the Spaniard another quality option in the engine room.

Florenzi is now approaching the prime of his career and would be a perfect fit for the Emirates.

Arsenal fans, thoughts?