Arsenal are now preparing a bid for a defender who has already starred during his opening performance at Euro 2024.
Following their failed pursuit of Benjamin Sesko this month, it seems as if Arsenal’s transfer priorities have now shifted.
A central midfielder is now believed to be the focus of the Arsenal’s summer, a signing that will dominate the club’s spending.
However, Edu will also then be attempting to improve squad depth in several areas, perhaps signing a defender and a winger to boot.
Neither William Saliba at the back or Bukayo Saka on the right have adequate cover – two players Mikel Arteta simply can’t cope without.
And it would seem ill-advised for Arsenal to begin the new season without a solution.
Fortunately, it’s now being reported that Arsenal have established a formidable target to strengthen their defence, Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi.
That’s according to CaughtOffside, who say that Arsenal are now preparing an opening bid.
However, the Gunners aren’t inclined to meet Palace’s £50m asking price right now.
Arsenal preparing opening offer for Marc Guehi but won’t pay £50m asking price
Both Arsenal and Newcastle United are said to be interested in Guehi, who looks ready to move on from Palace.
Oliver Glasner’s new era at the south London club has deservedly caused a lot of excitement, but Guehi has often displayed his readiness to join a top club.
And having excelled at Euro 2024 in England’s opening 1-0 win against Serbia, it’s clear to see why Arsenal are reportedly interested.
Guehi played as the left-side centre-back on this occasion, demonstrating his versatility as a right-footer.
The England man, who Kyle Walker described as ‘fantastic’ after his 90 minutes on Monday, would be a superb addition were he initially willing to fight for his place.
Guehi would immediately become the first-choice alternative to Saliba and Gabriel Magalhaes, an area of the squad that really lacks depth.
Perhaps Guehi may believe that disrupting Saliba and Gabriel’s partnership is an insurmountable task, but Mikel Arteta has shown a willingness to drop the Brazilian previously.
And with so much football for Arsenal to play during another Champions League season, there would certainly be opportunities for Guehi to prove his worth.
All that being said, Arsenal have now convinced one ‘excellent’ player to sign a new contract and stay.