Arsenal open talks with quality free defender; second deal also mooted

Malang Sarr TEAMtalk

Arsenal have begun negotiations over a deal for Malang Sarr – but are yet to offer a contract to the free-agent defender.

The 21-year-old moved to Nice in 2015, initially with their B team, before stepping up to the first team in 2016.

Since then, however, he has proved an outstanding signing, making 102 Ligue 1 appearances in four seasons.

Sarr has earned rave reviews for his performances for Nice this season, where he made 20 appearances in all competitions.

But after coming to the end of his contract, the 21-year-old finds himself in high demand.

The likes of RB Leipzig, Torino and Sampdoria are also said to be keen on Sarr. Man City boss Pep Guardiola is also reported to be a fan.

But it seems Arsenal are already ahead of their rivals after it was reported they had already held talks.

Although the Gunners are yet to table a bid, Mikel Arteta and technical director Edu are said to be keen.

Should the France U21 international sign, he could help form a new-look defence alongside William Saliba.

 

Saliba joined the Gunners last summer before remaining with St Etienne on a season’s loan.

In addition, Arsenal could also add a third new defender in Reims centre-back Axel Disasi.

The Gunners registered their interest in the 22-year-old earlier this year, though are yet to follow that up.

But he is another Edu is known to be keen on and a deal may yet materialise.

Arsenal have a growing collection of young centre-halves, and one of these, Konstantinos Mavropanos has on Thursday secured a loan move away 

 

Arteta concerned by finances

Mikel Arteta

Mikel Arteta admits he has “big concerns” over whether he will get the finances to mount a title challenge.

Asked whether he will get the finances to build a title challenge, Arteta told Sky Sports: “I don’t know. It is a big concern because you see how they build the squads.

“It is not magic, you need to improve with quality players in the squad. You need a bigger squad to compete in this competition and that is going to be the challenge.”

The Gunners boss has also discussed his side’s plans as they prepare to face Manchester City in the FA Cup semi-final. Read what he had to say here.