It looks like the Arsenal and Unai Emery are closing in on their first signing of the transfer window this year, with Juventus Right Back Stephan Lichtsteiner expected to sign on to a short-term deal at the Emirates, according to Di Marzio.
Lichtsteiner’s contract with Juventus will expire at the end of June and it looks extremely likely that the experienced 34-year old will be joining the Gunners for next season.
The right-back is set to come in and play a rotational role in the squad, offering opportunities for Hector Bellerin to rest throughout the season. Bellerin played the second most minutes for the North London side last season, only losing out to one of Arsene Wenger’s favourite Granit Xhaka.
Lichtsteiner is set to play in the world cup as the captain of the Switzerland team alongside Swiss Player of the Year and potential future teammate Granit Xhaka this summer.
New Head of Recruitment and new manager Unai Emery are looking to bring experience and leadership to the struggling Arsenal defence in the upcoming transfer window. At 34-years-old Lichtsteiner will potentially take a larger role off the pitch than on the pitch, acting as an example for other players and a role model for younger teammates.
With 29-year-old center back Sokratis’ signing looking to be announced in the next week and Arsenal showing strong interest in 31-year-old Juventus defender Mehdi Benatia, there is a clear theme in transfer targets this summer, players with a wealth of experience at top European clubs.
It looks like Unai Emery may be looking to diverge from Arsene Wenger’s managerial style that was willing to sacrifice results in order to grow young players.
However, an interest in young players is still shown, with Caglar Soyuncu confirming Arsenal will be holding talks with the 22-year-old next week.
