Arsenal desperately need to strengthen their defensive unit this summer, and it seems a new right-back is on their wish-list, with Thomas Meunier the latest name in the frame – would he improve their starting line-up, though?
The Belgium international is being linked with a reunion with his former Paris Saint-Germain boss Unai Emery at the Emirates Stadium ahead of next season.
France Football, as cited by GFFN, indicate that Arsenal are the newest potential suitors to emerge for Meunier, who PSG value at €30 million and want to sell.
Twitter: Arsenal manager Unai Emery wants to sign PSG right-back Thomas Meunier, according to France Football – full story https://t.co/bW0oOWuDFf (@GFFN)
Emery saw his side apologetically stumble to a fifth-place finish in the Premier League, but they remain in with a chance of silverware as they gear up for their Europa League final against Chelsea on Wednesday.
It could still be a successful season for Arsenal, but one thing is certain this summer: new defenders are needed.
Hector Bellerin’s long-term injury he sustained in January set the Gunners back, as they were forced to utilise Ainsley Maitland-Niles and, in rather more unfortunate circumstances, Stephan Lichtsteiner on the right-hand side of the defence.
However, their defensive deficiencies were prevalent throughout the course of the campaign, and significant repair work will be necessary for Emery and the men behind the scenes in North London.
Meunier would appear to be a readily available option who could arrive at Arsenal with experience, composure and quality. He would certainly improve the squad, but would he be an upgrade on Bellerin and slot into the starting line-up?
Thomas Tuchel has been left underwhelmed by the Belgian during his time in Paris. He has preferred Thilo Kehrer, Dani Alves and, according to France Football, will be more willing to give Colin Dagba the chance to shine at right-back instead of the experienced defender.
Meunier is a more physically imposing player than Bellerin, but he does not possess the raw pace and guile that the Spaniard does, which is more favourable in a system such as Emery’s.
The Arsenal man is also blessed with arguably greater technical qualities, given his ability to contribute regularly in combination play down the right and burst to into the final third, highlighting his credentials in attacking transition.
Meunier, the more experienced of the pair, is a better decision-maker, but Bellerin is a younger option with a higher ceiling, and there is still plenty of room for improvement.
PSG’s asking price would appear to be steep, and whether or not the defender would be willing to settle for being second fiddle to the Gunners favourite is uncertain.
At €30 million, Arsenal should probably be looking to strengthen their squad elsewhere, despite the undeniable quality that Meunier possesses.
