In the latest update to the Arsenal transfer window, it’s reported that Unai Emery is locked into negotiations with Sevilla for midfielder Steven N’Zonzi.
Various sources are reporting that the Gunners may have to settle for the players €40m (£36m) release clause, although the North London side are attempting to negotiate this down to fit into the club’s somewhat depleted budget, according to reports in Mirror.
Some fans are wondering whether the Gooners really do need to sign another midfielder given the arrival of Lucas Torreira and Matteo Guendouzi who are both defensive midfielders like N’Zonzi.
It is important to note that key players Santi Cazorla and Jack Wilshere have both departed the side this season and that in the Premier League, sometimes squad depth can be the difference between a successful season and an unsuccessful one.
It looks like Arsenal are the favourites to sign the midfielder, who seems to be looking for a move away from Spain. With this, there is a serious challenge from Italian side Roma, who will be competitive bidders to take the Frenchman.
N’Zonzi has made an impressive 37 appearances for Emery’s old club, scoring 2 goals and grabbing 1 assist in the process, playing as an overtly defensive player.
Standing at an impressive 6 foot 4, the player will certainly be a force to be reckoned with in the box on both ends of the pitch.
With Arsenal’s transfer budget almost entirely spent already, there may be a few players who may depart yet to raise cash for the transfer.
Some who look like possible candidates to leave include Shkodran Mustafi, who has suffered from some heavily varying performances over his last few seasons with the Arsenal.
Given the arrival of Sokratis, Lichtsteiner and the large competition within the squad in the position, it looks very likely a defender or two may leave soon if the deal for N’Zonzi will go ahead.
