According to Globo Esporte, as cited by Metro, Arsenal have contacted Gremio in regards to the availability of Walter Kannemann. The Argentine international has been identified as the ideal replacement for Shkodran Mustafi, who could leave the club following a disastrous campaign.
It is believed that the Gunners were monitoring the progress of Kannemann for a long time now, but they may have to fork out £12 million if they are to sign this 28-year-old defender this summer.
Kannemann’s success in the Brazilian Serie A
Kannemann initially joined Gremio in an £815k move from Mexican side Atlas back in 2016. And since then, he became a bit part player for the Brazilian outfit. During his three year spell at the club, he has made only 57 Serie A outings.
Kannemann’s struggles at Gremio has continued this season, with the Argentine making only three league appearances so far. He has been often overlooked in favour of the likes of Michel and Rodrigues. And this could force the 28-year-old to seek a move away from the club this summer, with Arsenal being a potential destination.
What can Kannemann bring to the table?
Kannemann is a hard-tackling defender, whose doggedness at the back coupled with his willingness to win back possession for his team makes him an asset in the defensive aspect of the game. He boasts a tall 1.84cm physically imposing frame that gives him a considerable advantage when it comes to duels. It also makes him an indirect threat from set-pieces.
Should Arsenal make a move for this defender?
Arsenal are in dire need of defensive reinforcements, especially with Mustafi struggling with form and Laurent Koscielny keen to leave the club this summer. Besides, the young defensive duo of Rob Holding and Konstantinos Mavrapanos have suffered from injuries this past season.
Kannemann, in that regard, appears as a cost-effective option for the Gunners in their bid to strengthen their defensive department this summer. However, despite his affordable price-tag of only £12 million, there are significant risks associated with his potential acquisition.
For one, the Argentine lacks experience in top-flight European football. And this could serve as a massive problem in his bid to integrate into the fast-paced of the Premier League. Additionally, his no-nonsense defensive style is similar to that of Sokratis, meaning he won’t be able to add a new dimension to the Arsenal backline – making him a tactically futile addition to the side.
