FAJAR.CO.ID, LONDON – Mikel Arteta is said to be a key force if Arsenal want to hijack Barcelona centre-back Eric Garcia. The closeness of the two at Manchester City is the reason.
Following Jurrien Timber’s injury, the Gunners are in a precarious position as defenders continue to leave the club.
Left-back Kieran Tierney has been loaned out to Real Sociedad while Nuno Tavares has agreed a deal to join Nottingham Forest on loan with a purchase option included.
Rob Holding could also still move on this summer and his playing conditions make Arteta’s backline potentially very light.
Jakub Kiwior, who usually plays as a centre-back, is now an option at left-back, while Takehiro Tomiyasu is more suitable to play on the right.
With reports emerging that Gabriel Magalhaes could make a surprise move away in the final days of the transfer window, this has left Arsenal’s defenders’ cupboard empty.
The answer is reportedly Garcia, despite Spanish publications suggesting Xavi has no interest in letting him go and despite his uncertain role in Arteta’s squad.
football.london says Arsenal now have limited time to make decisions regarding strengthening at the back and nothing has been done so far.
According to them, Gabriel risks leaving and at the same time Timber gets injured. That according to them is very worrying.
“When the Africa Cup of Nations is held in January, there is a good chance Arteta will only have five senior defenders available to call upon. For a team competing at the top of the league, in European competition and hopefully in two cup competitions, that is far from enough,” said the report.
