According to reports in Greece, as cited by Mirror, Wolverhampton Wanderers have beaten Arsenal in the pursuit of Pape Abou Cisse. The Wolves are expected to sign the £10 million rated Olympiacos defender as part of their defensive reinforcement this summer. Arsenal, however, will be dealt with a big blow as their struggles in reshaping their defensive unit continues. But, was Cisse really a viable target for the Gunners?
Cisse’s success at Olympiacos
Cisse has been a part of the Olympiacos side since January 2017, when he made a £630k move from AC Ajaccio. He was, however, loaned back to the French club immediately till the rest of the 2016/17 campaign.
The Senegalese international made his first-team breakthrough with Olympiacos during the 2017/18 season, making 17 league appearances. And after a slow start of the 2018/19 campaign, he has now become a prominent part of the club’s backline.
Cisse built a solid defensive combination with Yassine Meriah that helped the Thrylos pose a strong challenge to PAOK Salonika for the Greek Super League title last season. His consistent performances have also made him one of the most promising young defenders playing in Europe.
What is the Senegalese all about?
Cisse is primarily known for his massive 1.97m frame that makes him an intimidating presence for any striker. It offers him physical superiority as well as the aerial advantage, which, in turn, makes him quite effective from set-pieces. Another key aspect of the defender’s gameplay is his ability to read the game. This is coupled with physical and aerial dominance as well as excellent composure that makes Cisse a well-rounded centre-back.
How could Cisse have fit in at Arsenal?
The Olympiacos defender would have been a cost-effective option in Arsenal’s bid to replace Laurent Koscielny. The Frenchman has refused to train with the team and is forcing a move away from the Emirates. He is reportedly close to securing a move to Rennes.
Nonetheless, Koscielny’s departure would create a massive void in the Gunners backline. And Cisse, to that end, could have been considered as a potential replacement for the ex-Lorient centre-back.
The Senegalese international may have been a little risky option for the North London giants given his lack of experience in top-flight European football. But in hindsight, his physical and aerial attributes could have tuned in well with the Premier League, meaning Arsenal could certainly rue missing out on Cisse.
