Arsenal finally know the price for this Barcelona defender
By Kian Long
Arsenal have finally heard from Barcelona about this defender…
The same narrative seems to be told every transfer window for Arsenal fans but this is only because the old saying rings true; Arsenal do need to improve their defence. In particular, the centre back position.
Currently, it’s a toss-up between Shkodran Mustafi, David Luiz and Sokratis Papastathopoulos as to who makes the first team, which in itself should ring alarm bells. Of these defenders, I struggle to think of one who would make the first team in any other top six side. Well, Manchester United, but they don’t really count.
This is why it’s good to see that, according to Sport, Barcelona have set their valuation straight for Sauel Umtiti. It’s thought that the Catalan side will ask for a fee of around £27m which, even by Arsenal’s standards, is more than doable. Although, they will likely face competition from Manchester United.
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There are many centre back options being thrown out there; others include Jerome Boateng and Dayot Upamecano. While the former would be free, he would be old and while the latter would be more expensive, he would have more time to develop. That said, Umtiti is the perfect middle ground.
He has been rumoured to be on the move from Barcelona for a while now, so surely this summer will see his sale. He has failed to make a huge impression at Camp Nou, although he has rarely disappointed when given the chance. The downfall for Umtiti has always been his injury record.
This is something which the Gunners will need to consider, especially given their track record of defensive injuries. However, if he works on his fitness, then I’m sure he could improve his longevity in order to partner William Saliba, which would definitely sort Arsenal out for the future.
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Do you think Arsenal should sign Samuel Umtiti this summer?