Mikel Arteta is interested in signing a £25m-rated player who has been likened to Real Madrid legend Marcelo, according to a recent report.
Arteta’s side will be desperate to finally pip Manchester City to the Premier League title, having narrowly missed out in the previous two seasons.
The North Londoners are perhaps two quality additions away from bridging the gap and it seems the club are keen on bringing in a defender to bolster the backline.
Arsenal interested in Feyenoord defender Lutsharel Geertruida
According to Da Telegraaf, via SoccerNews, Arsenal are in the race to sign Feyenoord defender Lutsharel Geertruida.
The versatile 23-year-old, who can operate as a full-back, centre-back and even as a midfielder, is out of contract next year.
As such, Feyenoord are desperate to sell him this summer transfer window to risk losing him on a free transfer next year.
Geertruida is said to be available for £25m as Liverpool and Tottenham Hotspur also circle for his signature.
Lutsharel Geertruida statistics
As per FBref data, Geertuida is of a similar profile to Real Madrid legend Marcelo and his statistics make for very impressive reading indeed.
The 2000-born ranks in the top one per cent for pass completion compared to his positional peers across Europe, evincing his proficient ability at playing out from the back.
Further, he sits in the top 15 per cent for shot-creating actions, amplifying his playmaking ability.
For £25m, Geertuida would be a smart addition for Arsenal as he’d provide cover in a number of positions.