According to a recent report by AS, Arsenal are among a whole host of clubs (which also includes Manchester City) who are chasing after the signature of Real Betis left-back Junior Firpo. However, it is understood that the La Liga defender’s agent is Pep Guardiola’s brother who will make it difficult for the Gunners to fend off City’s interest on the player.
The Rapid Rise Of Junior Firpo
Firpo has already put in a string of impressive displays during this season which has caught the attention of other clubs. His most recent display against Barcelona saw him score the opening goal of the game which helped Betis pull off a major upset at the Nou Camp last weekend.
The Spanish prospect was born in Santo Domingo de Guzman but grew up playing football in Spain. He graduated from the CD Puerto Malagueno academy before making a switch to play for Real Betis. He had to gain some experience with the club’s Under 19 and B teams before finally being promoted to play for the senior side at the start of this calendar year.
The 22-year-old full-back has featured in 13 matches for Betis this term, scoring two goals while grabbing two assists in all competitions.
What Can The Spanish Defender Add To Emery’s Team?
Firpo can be quite quick with his feet and knows how to defend while facing his own goal. He is also a good distributor of the ball and can put in a telling cross into the opposition box from the left flank. However, the Spaniard has still not proven himself at the highest level, and so the jury is still out on whether he can handle the pressure of playing in the Premier League.
The addition of Firpo will undoubtedly bolster Unai Emery’s defensive options at the Emirates Stadium. The Gunners have already got the likes of Nacho Monreal and Sead Kolasinac to play at the left-back position, but both players have been plagued with injuries in recent times. Hence, the acquisition of Firpo might improve their squad depth and add more competition for the coveted left-back spot.
Should The Gunners Sign Him?
Emery will be taking a risk if he ends up going for the Betis full-back but it might be a risk worth taking considering that his side are still going through a rebuilding process at the moment. Hence, Firpo should get enough time to settle into life in North London without having to deal with the pressure to deliver on the pitch from the get-go.
