The Gunners have agreed a deal with Bologna of £34million plus add-ons. Where does the 22-year-old’s pending arrival leave Arsenal’s current central defenders?
The 23-year-old will remain one of the first names on the teamsheet once he returns to the fold this summer. Gabriel has been linked with a move away from the club in the past but along with Saliba, the central defender has formed a formidable partnership.
The former Lille ace deserves his place in Arteta’s starting back four but will face new competition to fight off. The ex-Brighton ace has locked down his place on the right side of defence and continues to develop more tools to produce on the flank.
With Calafiori more likely to feature in the centre or left side of defence, White should be secure in his position but may see Takehiro Tomiyasu become more direct competition throughout a busy season. The Poland international is probably the profile most at risk from Calafiori’s arrival.
Kiwior made 38 appearances last term but looks likely to move on with interest from Inter Milan already emerging. Timber featured on the left side on his debut but offers a versatile option across the whole backline.
Against the Cherries, the 23-year-old played in the heart of defence but he will have his work to cut out to usurp Gabriel or Saliba in Arteta’s first choice selection. A place at full-back may be more attainable, possibly leaving Timber in direct competition with Calafiori.
The Gunners’ injury issues saw Tomiyasu feature frequently on the left of defence and Calafiori’s arrival perhaps makes this possibility less likely. It could see Tomiyasu put in more direct competition with White on the right side.
That the 25-year-old is more limited moving forwards could see him become a rotation option for Arteta. It is perhaps more a case of necessity with bodies missing as they recover from Euro 2024 and Copa America activity, and Arsenal are perhaps most likely to facilitate a move for the perennial loanee.
The youngster is likely to continue to feature for Arsenal’s academy and to continue learning for another year. He will have plenty of quality to gain experience from.
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