First Arsenal January signing confirmed – £50m World-class defender to join,big already accepted – waiting for next week to unveil Him
Arsenal versatile defender Takehiro Tomiyasu has reportedly been ‘proposed’ to Italian champions Napoli ahead of the January transfer window. The right-back is currently injured after playing an important role under Mikel Arteta in the first half of the season.
Tomiyasu’s ability to play at both left-back and right-back has made him a vital member of the Gunners’ squad. However, his future could be up in the air with Napoli said to be keen on signing the player.
According to Calciomercato, there’s a possibility that the 25-year-old could return to Italy after joining the north Londoners from Bologna in 2021. It’s said that the Serie A holders have had Tomiyasu offered to them ahead of January.
Arteta considers the defender a valuable resource but the report states a ‘good offer’ could tempt them to allow Tomiyasu to leave. However, the defender’s participation in the Asian Cup means Napoli could have to wait until mid-February to have him available.
With that being said, football.london takes a look at Arsenal’s defensive options and the January transfer window.
Does Mikel Arteta want to sell Tomiyasu?
No, he doesn’t. Prior to his recent setback, Tomiyasu had featured in all but two of the Gunners’ opening 14 league games. His ability to play on either side of the back four makes him the complete player.
However, as is the case with Thomas Partey, the defender’s history with injuries means a transfer shouldn’t be ruled out.
What has Arteta said about January?
If reports are to be believed, Arteta wants four players to be signed at the Emirates Stadium in order for them to become the best team in England. The Independent have claimed that the Spaniard wants to make that amount of signings to complete his squad.
Just like the summer transfer window, Arsenal will have to sell players if they are to bolster their options.
How much could Tomiyasu cost?
Transfermarkt value the 25-year-old at €30million while CIES Football Observatory have him at €20million. With 18 months left on his current deal, that figure could increase in January.
