When the Gunners signed five players, many assumed that they are done with bringing in players. But, based on the reports coming from France, it appears that Arsenal are continuing their pursuit of Sevilla midfielder Steven N’Zonzi, according to reports in RMC.
The midfielder is someone that new manager Unai Emery has already worked with and is thinking of reuniting with as well.
Arsenal have only recently signed Lucas Torreira from Sampdoria and they have quite a few players that can play in central midfield.
So, a deal for the £35m-rated midfielder seems a little doubtful but it is being suggested that the Gunners and Emery, in particular, are targeting a tall defensive midfielder.
The Frenchman certainly fits that bill so the story may have some basis after all. Emery was asked about the player before the match against Boreham Wood and he had this to say:
on Steven N’Zonzi…
I know him but we haven’t made a move for him.
It could be a case of not wanting to reveal too much but this has only added to the speculation regarding the deal. The Frenchman will add an interesting dimension to the Gunners squad as he is capable of breaking up play very well and has a physical advantage due to his height.
He has experience of playing in the Premier League having been a part of both Blackburn Rovers and Stoke City. So, the change in leagues will not be too much of a hassle for him to deal with. Emery spoke about how the club will sign a player if a chance arises and perhaps that is the case with N’Zonzi. The manager was asked about any further incoming players, to which he said this:
on how many more players he would like to sign…
Normally, in my career the big clubs don’t close the [door] or the moment to sign a new player. Today, we are OK. Maybe we can bring in one if there’s a very good possibility for them to help us, but the club has done a great job of signing new players and I am happy.
Even if he is brought in to be a backup player, N’Zonzi will be a valuable member of the squad. But, after having won the World Cup, he will not want to be at a club where he is not a starter. No matter what happens, it promises to be a interesting few weeks ahead.
