Whilst all seems pretty quiet at the Emirates right now, both Mikel Arteta and Edu Gaspar will be working diligently to execute Arsenal’s summer plans.
It’s well known that Arsenal want to conclude their business as early as possible, repeating their success with deals for Kai Havertz and Declan Rice last summer.
Mikel Arteta had the pair in place for the start of pre-season, something that helped their settling process no end.
Both were integral to Arsenal’s success, and Edu oversaw an incredibly productive summer.
Along with the pair mentioned, David Raya and Jurrien Timber also improved the club’s starting XI, even if the latter’s impact was delayed owing to an unfortunate injury.
And whilst Arsenal will be hoping to improve their starting XI once again this summer, perhaps with the signing of Newcastle United’s Alexander Isak, strengthening their squad depth in several areas could be just as important.
Arteta’s side lost the title by the smallest of margins, and some still feel that the Arsenal manager needs to rotate his players more to avoid fatigue over the season.
Of course, in order to do so, Arteta needs a squad he trusts.
Atalanta’s Giorgio Scalvini could compete with William Saliba at Arsenal
When considering who was most fatigued at Arsenal last season, William Saliba played every single league minute.
A remarkable record for a player with an outstanding injury history, but also the tale of a player who doesn’t have the necessary back up
And that’s where Atalanta’s 20-year-old centre-back Giorgio Scalvini comes in.
Giorgio Scalvini is a rare talent, a modern libero who has a similar profile to John Stones at Manchester City.
Scalvini played 45 minutes in Atalanta’s recent Europa League final win and showcased all of his talent.
And whilst many were looking at the likes of Ederson and Teun Koopmeiners, two midfielders with interest across Europe right now, perhaps Scalvini presents the smartest choice, particularly in Arsenal’s case.
The ‘complete’ £35m-rated defender could not only act as back-up for Saliba as Arsenal’s right-sided centre-back, but he also gives Arteta the option to move to an effective back three.
Moreover, the Italian can also step in midfield when needed – a signing who improves this Arsenal squad significantly.
All that being said, Mikel Arteta is said to have his eyes on another young defender this summer.