Unai Emery is looking to solve a problem Arsene Wenger seemingly couldn’t towards the end of his tenure: the defence.
The Spaniard has shown a real intent to sort his defence out this summer. He has shown he is not afraid to add experience to his defence either. Stephan Lichsteiner, brought in from Juventus, is 34-years-old. He comes with vast experience, hinting that that is what Emery feels he needs. Likewise, Sokratis Papastathoupoulos is 30-years-old. Another defender who knows how to see out a game and has vast experience. Emery clearly does not want Arsenal to be seen as a ‘soft touch’ as they were under Wenger.
A modern day defence has to have experience and know how to play the modern game. Not going to ground, shepherding balls out and not giving away soft handballs are all a part of a modern-day defender, as is knowing how to play with the ball at your feet. The days of Premier League defenders booting the ball up the pitch seem long gone in the modern era of football.
With that in mind, here are three defensive reinforcements who would be perfect for Arsenal…
Kalidou Koulibaly is a highly rated centre-back and highly rated for a reason.
Chelsea and Manchester United are reportedly interested in the big centre-back. Arsenal should join the race for him.
The 6ft 5 Napoli defender is an absolute force. He will win everything in the air, and is strong in the tackle, rarely mistiming. He is a major threat from set pieces, and scored a goal to beat Juventus in Turin last season.
The 27-year-old has experience and would be an excellent signing for Arsenal.
The 32-year-old would be a great reinforcement for the Gunners.
He has been a mainstay in the Atletico Madrid side since 2010. Despite his age, he is valued at £35m by Transfermarkt.
He made his senior debut for Uruguay in 2005, and has played for his national side ever since. For a defender, he is excellent on the ball, and has the nouse to see out a game.
Mamadou Sakho is a major reason why Crystal Palace survived relegation last season.
A huge force on the game, he made his name at Paris Saint-Germain, before moving to Anfield. The defender is now with mid-table Crystal Palace, but he is certainly capable of playing at the higher reaches of the game.
At 28 years of age, he has great experience which Emery is looking for. If they can prize Sakho away from the Eagles, he would be an excellent reinforcement.
