The Arsenal faithful here in the Football Transfer Tavern are well aware of their side’s ongoing defensive crisis; with two of Arsenal’s first choice central defenders all out with long term injuries – but we may finally have some good news…
After weeks of failed transfer attempts for targets such as Shkodran Mustafi, Arsenal have reportedly given up on the transfer after negotiations came to a halt.
According to this report by the Daily Mirror, Arsenal are looking for experienced defensive steel in the heart of their defence, and have turned to Southampton defender Jose Fonte as the man to provide them with that steel.
Whilst not carrying the star power of a star like Mustafi, Fonte is an experienced defender with knowledge of the Premier League, making his adaption immediate – exactly what Arsenal need.
In fact, our Landlord thinks that Jose Fonte could just be the perfect final puzzle piece as Arsene Wenger looks to build an unstoppable back four.
With that, could this be the potential new-look Arsenal defence?
RB – Hector Bellerin
Hector Bellerin’s rise to superstardom at Arsenal has been astounding, and he has quickly become a fan favourite amongst the Arsenal faithful here at the Football Transfer Tavern.
At just 21 years old, Bellerin’s best years are still ahead of him; but he still finds himself as one of the best right back’s in the Premier League.
Offering electric pace, unstoppable offence and solid defensive work; he has all the makings of a world-class left back in the future – and he is the perfect man to hold down the right hand side of the Arsenal defence.
CB – Jose Fonte
Arsenal’s proposed new signing would slot right into the Arsenal defensive line, offering solid defensive work and a crucially important level of leadership.
Arsenal are in desperate need of charismatic, experienced leaders – and Jose Fonte is exactly that.
At 32 he is no long term fix; but as Arsene Wenger looks to build immediate success; Jose Fonte could be his man.
A great signing if they can make it happen.
CB – Laurent Koscielny
Laurent Koscielny is due to return to first team action within the next couple of weeks; and boy have Arsenal missed him.
Koscielny is without doubt one of the best central defenders in the Premier League, and offers a perfect contrast of pace and technical ability to Jose Fonte’s no nonsense defending.
He would improve any defence in England; and this Arsenal back line is no different.
LB – Nacho Monreal
Despite a slow start to life at Arsenal, Nacho Monreal has turned into a very solid left back.
Left back has proven to be a real problem area for a number of big Premier League sides in recent years, but in Monreal Arsenal have a left back that can consistently be relied upon.
He might be rarely spectacular, but you will never get a bad game out of Monreal; and that quality is essential in this Arsenal defence.
