Arsenal might have found the perfect understudy to William Saliba and Gabriel

Arsenal may have found the perfect understudy to William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhaes in the shape of Marc Guehi.

Saliba and Gabriel have formed a formidable partnership in the centre of defence, playing an integral part in Mikel Arteta's title charge this season.

However, Saliba sustained an injury during Arsenal's Europa League defeat to Sporting Lisbon last month, and has not featured since.

The Frenchman's absence has been sorely missed and could be looked back on as one of the defining reasons why Arsenal didn't win the league, should they fail to catch Manchester City.

Rob Holding has had to step into Saliba's place but has struggled to replicate the 22-year-old's immaculate form.

Following the Gunners' recent collapse in form, Arteta has reportedly turned his attention to strengthening his back line to avoid a similar crisis in future.

Guehi has been identified as a potential solution, with the Crystal Palace defender able to play on both the left and right-hand side of defence.

Guehi to Arsenal?

Arsenal are in direct competition with Tottenham for Guehi's signature, according to the Evening Standard.

Guehi has impressed at Selhurst Park this term, helping the Eagles climb to 11th place in the Premier League, one place above his former club Chelsea.

While he was called up to Gareth Southgate's England squad in March.

The 22-year-old joined Palace from Chelsea for a fee of £18m deal in 2021, though he is likely to cost far more this time round.

In addition, the Blues would be beneficiaries of any potential sale and would would also be given the chance to match any offer.

Arteta did add Jacub Kiwior to his ranks in January. However, the Poland international has made just three appearance since his £20million move from Spezia.

Although it is unlikely Guehi would be willing to play second fiddle to Saliba and Gabriel, Arteta's ability to rotate the three would be useful considering Arsenal's busy European schedule next season.

Topics: Arsenal, Marc Guehi, Transfers, William Saliba, Gabriel Magalhaes, Tottenham Hotspur, Crystal Palace, Chelsea, Mikel Arteta, Football, Premier League

Joe Adams

Joe is a Journalist for SPORTbible with a primary focus on football. He has previously covered a number of other sports including boxing, rugby and F1. Wishes he was born left-footed.

@joeadamsjourno