Jose Gaya (Valencia)
Following in the footsteps of Jordi Alba and Juan Bernat, Gaya has broken through as an attacking left back with great pace in Valencia. He’s vastly experienced despite only being 24, with over 150 league appearances and five international caps. He would be the most expensive player on the list, having signed a new contract last year he may be out of Arsenal’s price range.
Ryan Sessegnon (Fulham)
Undoubtedly one of England’s bright young talents, he struggled in the Premier League last year which could play into Arsenal’s hands. The Telegraph reported last year he would cost at least £35m however his contract runs out next summer and a poor season could make him cheaper. Probably better going forward than defensively, The Telegraph also reported it was Spurs who wanted to sign him, so it would give Arsenal the chance to get one over on their rivals.
Ainsley Maitland-Niles
The in-house and cheaper option could be attractive to Arsenal to allow money to be spent elsewhere. It would be a big ask for the Arsenal youth product who has broken through as the ultimate utility man, capable of playing in defence, midfield and even further up. He’s right footed and has filled in at right back often, so may take time to adapt. He is great on the ball and very quick so if he was allowed time to bed in, he could be a reasonable if uninspiring option for Unai Emery.
It still remains to be seen if Arsenal return with a third bid for Tierney, however they could be well advised to start looking at alternatives if negotiations continue to drag on.