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Topics: Arsenal, Premier League, RB Leipzig, Mikel Arteta, Ben White, Transfers
Ryan Smart
Topics: Arsenal, Premier League, RB Leipzig, Mikel Arteta, Ben White, Transfers
Arsenal are reportedly plotting a move to sign RB Leipzig star Mohamed Simakan this summer - and he has already proven why he is the ideal fit for Mikel Arteta's side.
According to The Guardian's Ed Aarons, the Gunners have 'strong interest' in the 23-year-old defender, who primarily plays at centre-back.
It is added, however, that the Frenchman signed a new deal with RB Leipzig until 2027 in December, meaning the German club will likely be able to ask for a high fee in order to sell him.
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Simakan has made 21 appearances for Leipzig in the Bundesliga this season, predominantly playing on the right side of a three-player defence or at right wing-back.
He would become Arsenal's second defensive signing of 2023 if he joins the club, with Jakub Kiwior arriving from Spezia in January.
Kiwior's versatility was one of the reasons the Gunners swooped to sign him for around £21 million, with the Polish international also able to play at left-back and in defensive midfield.
And it is Simakan's versatility that could make him an excellent addition to the squad.
Simakan's ability to play on the right side of central defence means he would compete with William Saliba for a spot in the Arsenal XI, when the France international is available.
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But he can also slot in at right-back if required - and his own qualities, coupled with Arteta's defensive style, could allow him to thrive at the Emirates Stadium.
The right-back role is currently filled by Ben White, who played at centre-back under the Spaniard prior to a tactical switch at the beginning of the season.
The addition of Oleksandr Zinchenko to Arsenal's squad in the summer, and his more offensive style, means that when he pushes forward to support attacks, White often sits back and forms a back three.
Given that Simakan is comfortable playing in the centre and on the right side of defence, his signing certainly makes sense for Arteta - and at 23 years of age, he has his prime years ahead of him.
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His market value, as per Transfermarkt, is €28 million, and a fee close to that would surely prove to be good value for Arsenal if Simakan can go on to have a similar impact to the one White has had on the side in his new role this season.