After weeks of speculation, it has finally happened. Arsenal’s Wojciech Szczesny has reportedly agreed on a deal with Serie A giants Juventus, who would have to pay around £10 million for the Polish shot stopper. The 27-year-old Polish international couldn’t get a chance in Arsenal’s first team and was even left out of the pre-season tour squad currently in China following their successful visit to Australia.
Szczesny was a crucial part of AS Roma’s successful campaign last season where they finished runner-up in the Italian league. He conceded 38 goals in 38 games for them, which was more than enough to impress the Old Lady who are looking at replacements for their legendary keeper Gianluigi Buffon.
The Arsenal academy product did have a considerable time as Arsenal’s number one following the departure of the faltering Manuel Almunia. However, he wasn’t that convincing in England and after Arsenal brought in Petr Cech for free, the Pole was sent on loan to AS Roma. Arsene Wenger did a good job in the last two seasons having the likes of Cech and David Ospina and his first two choices under the bar, which made it impossible for Szczesny to break into.
However, to Arsenal’s misfortune, reports are also ripe that Ospina is the next player to leave the club owing to less first team chances with Fenerbahce a likely destination. Wenger would need a new number 2 now especially with the club playing Europa League next season. Here are 3 replacements-
Alphonse Areola- The Paris Saint-Germain number 2 has been on the target list for many European clubs. Despite starting the Ligue 1 season decently, the 24-year-old fell down the pecking order to Kevin Trapp as Unai Emery trusted him more. Areola has appeared just 22 times in the league, conceding just 21 goals overall, which reflects his attributes under the bar.
Kasper Schmeichel- The 30-year-old Danish international came to the fore following Leicester City’s title winning campaign in 2016. And the goalkeeper played a brilliant role in the success, conceding just 36 goals in 38 games. A giant of a figure under the bar, Schmeichel is known for his brilliant penalty saving abilities and ball distribution. Although a dip in form and a shoulder dislocation affected last season as he conceded 47 goals in 36 games, he still retains a top shot-stopper and can do a good job for the top clubs.
Alban Lafont- Yet another Ligue 1 goalie who has caught the attention of many clubs. The Toulouse shot stopper, just 18, has shown some outlandish displays for the club of late. He was thrown into the middle at age 16 in 2015, where he played 24 games and conceded just 27 times. Last season too, he conceded just 41 goals in 36 games. He could be a brilliant long-term prospect for Arsenal after Petr Cech eventually hangs up his boots.
