ENGLISH PREMIER LEAGUE

Arsenal near to striking a €21.5 million deal for Saliba backup

Shearer Saliba Arsenal Botman Newcastle

Arsenal are looking to hijack Tottenham’s deal for Galatasaray defender Victor Nelsson. Spurs were thought to be the favourites to secure the centre-back’s signature. However, Arsenal are also keen on snapping him up as fears grow over William Saliba’s future.

Arsenal looking to get the deal done as soon as possible

Tottenham had an £11m bid rejected by the Turkish giants before Agne Postecoglou’s recent appointment. Yet the club retains an interest in acquiring the player’s services. That will happen after beating off competition from the likes of Brighton, Burnley and Wolves

‌But according to the Daily Star, the Gunners are now in hot pursuit of the Denmark international as well. They are hoping to tempt him away from their fierce rivals. Nelsson is understood to have a £22m release clause in his contract and Arsenal are considering matching it. 

One of the things that will attract Arsenal and Tottenham to Nelsson is his ball-playing abilities. He can pass the ball short and long very comfortably. He can find teg wingers easily through his long balls.

He’s a brilliant passer out from the back and completes 75% of his passes into the opposition’s half.

Moreover, primarily considered a right-sided centre-back, Nelsson would provide strong competition for William Saliba’s position. However, Arsenal will look for a homegrown talent.

Recruiting adequate cover for Saliba this summer is a must. However, Galatasaray will be hoping the added interest in Nelsson will see a team meet his release clause quickly. Given Arsenal also want his teammate Boey, they may be thinking they can get a good deal by signing both players.

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