Three affordable centre-backs Arsenal can target instead of Eric Bailly
Arsenal need defensive reinforcement after watching several players get ruled out for most of the season and with the January transfer window open, they have a chance to bring in someone to help Unai Emery and his side. However, with Manchester United set to reject any bids for their top target Eric Bailly, according to the Telegraph, Arsenal will have to look elsewhere.
But as compared to the other Premier league top five sides, Arsenal does not have the budget to compete with the likes of Chelsea, Manchester City or even Manchester United. Thus they need to look towards affordable solutions to their defensive issues and that is easier said than done. That being said, here are three potential options.
#3 Matija Nastasic
The former Manchester City man left the Premier League after winning one league title and making 51 appearances for the English giants. However, eventually due to a lack of appearances the Serbian star left on loan to Schalke FC, eventually making the move permanent.
Now, while there are no rumours linking him to a move to Arsenal, Nastasic could be the perfect man to help the Gunner’ back-line. His ability to lead the line, combined with his defensive ingenuity would be more than useful for Arsenal in the upcoming games. However, at the age of 25, this would put Nastasic right in the middle of his prime and thus a target for anyone looking for a reliable centre-back.
#2 Jemerson
The 26-year-old arrived in AS Monaco just over two years ago and since then has become a mainstay in Leonardo Jardim and then Thierry Henry’s Ligue 1 side. A consistent presence despite the Ligue 1 giant’s struggles this season, and has been among their top players this season.
However, given the very real possibility that Monaco could get relegated there is a chance that once again they could lose their best stars and Jermerson is on that list. The Brazilian’s composure combined with his passing ability makes him a very useful option to have. His 100 appearances have come in just under three years with the club, and unless he gets snapped up by any club looking for defensive reinforcements, there is a great chance Jemerson doubles that in the near future.
#1 Matthias Ginter
A World Cup winner, a German Cup winner and a myriad of other trophies to his name, the former Borussia Dortmund centre-back has made a name for himself at Borussia Monchengladbach. A versatile youngster, the 23-year-old has the ability to play as a right back, centre-back or as a defensive midfielder.
While he is the most expensive option on this list, his composure and defensive abilities make him a must-have star, especially for a team like Arsenal. Matthias Ginter would flourish under Unai Emery but the Gunners need to take the plunge and make the move.
