According to a recent report by Italian journalist Nico Schira (via Football.London), Arsenal are in advanced talks with Paris Saint-Germain to secure the services of Belgium international Thomas Meunier during the summer transfer window.
The same source has revealed that the Gunners are planning on offering a five-year contract to the Ligue 1 defensive ace as the two clubs try to reach an agreement over the coming weeks.
Meunier’s Recent Injury Struggles At Paris
Meunier had to endure a difficult season at the French capital, but he still managed to put in some impressive displays down the right flank. The Belgian talent’s campaign has been ravaged by injuries which saw him make only 19 league starts for PSG in the French top-flight. However, he did manage to score five goals while providing seven assists in 31 appearances for the Ligue 1 champions this term across all competitions.
More importantly, the Belgian right-back has made an average of 2.0 tackles, 0.8 interceptions and 1.0 clearances per match in the top tier of France (Stats via whoscored). The 27-year-old has also represented Belgium in 36 international games and has six goals to his name for his country.
What Will The Ligue 1 Fullback Add To Emery’s Side?
Meunier is very quick and agile when running with the ball and can complete some lung-bursting dribbles down the right wing. The Belgian defender can also whip in some inviting crosses into the opposition penalty area. He is usually a reliable defender when defending in his own half and has enough speed to recover when left isolated in 1v1 scenarios.
Meunier has a wealth of experience in European football, so he will undoubtedly bolster Emery’s full-back options at the Emirates Stadium. The Belgian talent will be guaranteed a regular starting berth at Arsenal as he will be an upgrade over any of Emery’s current options for the right-back position. Hence, it makes a lot of sense for the North London giants to go for a player like Meunier ahead of the new season.
At 27, the PSG sensation is currently playing at his peak, which the Gunners could look to benefit from over the next few years. Furthermore, the Belgian will also bring a winning mentality to the North London club having won many major honours during his time at Paris.
