Arsenal are reportedly planning a move for a new centre-back. The decision arises after their new signing Jurrien Timber picked up an injury in his debut game in the Premier League against Nottingham Forest. Arsenal later confirmed the seriousness of Timber’s injury. The Dutch CB is dealing with a devastating ACL injury, confirmed the club on Tuesday. Sources have also confirmed that Timber will be out for at least 5 months, keeping out of action for the rest of the year, therefore, a huge blow for Mikel Arteta.
Timber was signed to strengthen Arsenal’s defence. The 22-year old is a very talented and a strong CB, who appeared to have an impact on the Gunners‘ defence in the pre-season games. His injury might force Arsenal to sign a replacement. However, The Gunners have had a busy transfer window. With the accusations of Declan Rice, Kai Havertz and Jurrien Timber, Arsenal have spent a staggering €208m this summer. Therefore, the question that arises is whether Arsenal have enough budget left to make another major signing or not.
Bayer Leverkusen’s Edmond Tapsoba has emerged as a top target for Arsenal
According to Football Fan Cast, Arsenal are targeting Edmond Tapsoba as a replacement for Timber. The 24-year old has been an impactful player for Leverkusen. The Burkinabe player was signed by Leverkusen in 2020. In the last 3 years, Tapsoba has emerged as a top defender in the Bundesliga. Scout, Jacek Kulig praised Tapsoba for his physical stature, making him a powerful CB. Jacek also praised Tapsoba for his incredible ability in one-on-one duels and situations. He is also regarded as a composed defender and a good passer of the ball as well. As a result, he is regarded as a ‘complete‘ centre-back by many experts in the Bundesliga.
Arsenal are not the only English team who have shown interest in Tapsoba this summer. Reports suggest that West Ham United and Arsenal’s arch rivals Tottenham Hotspur have also been linked to the defender. Tottenham mainly, have shown strong interest in Tapsoba, with the club looking to try and sign the talented defender. Ange Postecoglou, reportedly, is still aiming for another CB signing after Micky van de Ven, who has been impressive in his first few matches for Spurs.
Tapsoba emerged as a target for Tottenham early this summer, but the club has not made an official move yet. This questions Spurs and Postecoglou’s interest in Tapsoba. However now, with Arsenal looking to make a move for Tapsoba, Spurs also now might finally be looking to make a move, which could lead to a potential transfer battle between the North London rivals. Leverkusen will reportedly ask for a fee around €50m for their star centre-back.
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