Eric Bailly hasn’t been that domineering centre-back Manchester United thought they’d bought, but he arrived at completely the wrong time. Indeed, he can prove he’s one of Europe’s best with a new start at Arsenal.

The Sun claimed late last week that the Gunners are interested in taking the United flop to the Emirates, and who can blame them? No centre-back would look good at Old Trafford at the moment. They have two dinosaurs in Antonio Valencia and Ashley Young either side of them.

Yuck.

The report says Unai Emery is hoping to secure him for £20m, according to BBC Sport. Interestingly, the Red Devils signed the 25-year-old for £34.2 million (as per Transfermarkt) back in 2016. He’s made just 11 starts for Jose Mourinho and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer this season and neither manager appeared to be keen on the Ivorian.

He needs a new start and the Arsenal project should excite him. He’s still capable of playing the ball out from the back and has the physicality to exceed in the Premier League. Emery must be looking for bargains this summer, and Bailly’s poor form for United could be a blessing for the club.

The 25-year-old is still a few years off his peak, and if the Gunners take the risk and put their belief in him, he could be their main centre-back for years. They’ve lacked discipline in the position for too long, and they need to invest there, so why not take a chance on Bailly.

It’s hard to judge United players individually when, as a unit, they’re so collectively poor. He’s clearly had potential for Mourinho to want him at Old Trafford in the first place. Arsenal could be the team to put his career back on track as they aim for a title challenge.

Arsenal fans, who would you sign in centre-back ahead of next season? Join the discussion by commenting below...