Three ways Arteta can solve Arsenal's defensive issues this summer amid Saliba fears

William Saliba's injury has left a gaping hole within Arsenal's back line, as Mikel Arteta seeks potential alternatives.

Saliba suffered an injury to his back against Sporting Lisbon in March and has not featured for the Gunners since.

In his absence, Arsenal have seen their title hopes take a significant hit, following three consecutive draws to Liverpool, West Hama and Southampton, before being dealt a 4-1 sucker-punch by Manchester City.

Should they fail to catch Pep Guardiola's side, fingers will be pointed towards Saliba's injury as a defining reason why, along with their lack of squad depth..

As a result, here are three moves Arsenal could make this summer to help prevent a similar situation occurring in future.

Guehi to Arsenal

Crystal Palace centre-back Marc Guehi has been rumoured with a move to the Emirates in recent weeks, as Arteta looks to strengthen his back four.

The 22-year-old's ability to play on either the left or right-hand side of defence would make him a useful candidate should Saliba or Gabriel Magalhaes be unavailable.

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

Although he won't come cheap, with the Eagles signing him for £18 million in 2021 from Chelsea.

Now an England international, and well adapted to the Premier League, the Eagles are likely to demand far more.

While Chelsea would also financially benefit from any future deal, and also have the opportunity to match any offer Arsenal make.

Fresneda to Arsenal

The next name on Arteta's shortlist is Real Valladolid right-back Ivan Fresneda, who has set La Liga alight this season.

The Gunners reportedly attempted to lure him to the Premier League in January, though the 18-year-old decided to stay put.

However, German news outlet BILD claim that Arsenal have reignited their pursuit, and are now 'actively pushing' to sign the Spaniard.

Despite the fact Fresneda is not a centre-back, he would allow Ben White to play Saliba's role should the 22-year-old be sidelined again.

Geertruida to Arsenal

Finally we have Feyenoord right-back Lutsharel Geertruida, who has recently emerged as a target for Arteta.

Football London’s Tom Canton has tipped the 22-year-old for a move away, revealing he can also play as a centre-back if needed.

The Netherlands international would suit Arsenal down to the ground, and could act as a cheaper alternative to the names previously mentioned.

Whoever Arteta may add to his ranks next season, the Spaniard will want to trust them implicitly, with fans often left concerned when the Gunners boss is forced to make changes in defence.

Topics: Arsenal, William Saliba, Mikel Arteta, Marc Guehi, Transfers, Football, Real Valladolid, Feyenoord

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