Arsenal defender Laurent Koscielny has been the subject of shock interest from La Liga BBVA giants Real Madrid this summer, and Arsene Wenger therefore may struggle to keep a hold of the Frenchman, particularly if Sergio Ramos leaves the Santiago Bernabeu [Daily Mail].
Courtesy of our friends at All Arsenal, we’ve taken inspiration from their piece on five potential replacements to Koscielny, and have put together our list of seven centre-backs who the Gunners could have to add to their transfer wish list.
Have a read below…
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7. Ezequiel Garay – Zenit Saint Petersburg
Previously linked with Manchester United, the Argentine has emerged as a target for Wenger [Express]. The 28-year-old is renown for his strength in the air and commitment in defence, this combined with his impressive pace could see him settle well in the Premier League.
6. Benedikt Howedes – Schalke 04
Schalke sports director Horst Heldt stated in January that the German defender would remain at the Veltins-Arena next season, but Arsenal have been heavily linked with his signature. International team-mate and Gunners playmaker Mesut Ozil believes Howedes is perfectly suited to England’s top flight [The Guardian].
5. Ashley Williams – Swansea City
The Swans captain was linked with a move to the Emirates last summer [Daily Mail], and though speculation quickly cooled, if Wenger decides to add experience to his backline, the Wales international could be an excellent fit. Nonetheless, at the age of 31 – despite his quality at the Liberty Stadium since their promotion – Arsenal should perhaps be targeting a younger defender.
4. Winston Reid – West Ham United
The New Zealand international looked to be on the verge of signing for the Hammers’ London rivals in the January window [Mirror], and while he later opted to sign a new contract at Upton Park, the 26-year-old could be an exciting Emirates prospect following his continued impressive performances for the Irons.
3. Toby Alderweireld – Atletico Madrid
The 26-year-old spent last season on loan at Southampton and was outstanding, as the Belgium international adapted to the Premier League with ease. With his future uncertain at the Estadio Vicente Calderon, his signature could be up for grabs this summer. With a season in England’s top flight under his belt, the defender – who can also play in midfield – could excite the Gunners faithful.
2. Mats Hummels – Borussia Dortmund
The German was linked with a move to the Premier League throughout last season, and while speculation has quietened since the close of the season, the German’s popularity remains intact. The World Cup winner’s price-tag, however, could prove a stumbling block with reports suggesting he could command a fee as high as £30m [Daily Star].
1. Sergio Ramos – Real Madrid
The Spaniard has hit the headlines over the past week after reports of his unhappiness at the Santiago Bernabeu emerged, and while Manchester United [Mirror] are heavily linked with esteemed centre-back, could Arsene Wenger be tempted into making a shock bid?
The Frenchman has made two hollywood signings over the past two summer windows – in Mesut Ozil and Alexis Sanchez – and perhaps he could return to Spain for the signature of another La Liga star before the start of next season.
