According to The Sun, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has identified John Stones as a top target. The Gunners are ready to sign the Manchester City defender to provide him with regular game-time, and they are even willing to accept a loan deal. And in this article, we will discuss the prospects of Stones’ potentially joining Arsenal in January.
A massive boost in defence
Stones’ arrival will undoubtedly serve as an enormous boost to Arsenal’s defensive department. Arteta is currently devoid of reliable options in central defence, especially with Sokratis and David Luiz failing to provide any sort of consistency.
Shkodran Mustafi has had a difficult spell at Arsenal, and it won’t be surprising to see him departing Emirates in January. As for Calum Chambers, he has suffered an ACL injury that will keep him out on the sidelines for a considerable amount of time. Rob Holding, too, has had his problems with injuries.
Stones, in that regard, could provide some much-needed competition for Sokratis and Luiz in central defence. The English international has considerable experience at the highest level of football and will offer Arteta with an additional option in the backline.
A solid relationship with Arteta
Indeed, Arteta shares a strong relationship with Stones thanks to their time together at Manchester City. The defender joined Etihad in 2016 – the same year Arteta was hired as the assistant manager of Pep Guardiola.
Arteta and Guardiola’s influence was critical behind Stones’ monumental growth at Man City. Although injuries have stalled his progress in recent years, the ex-Everton star is still regarded as a quality defender, who can add a lot of strength to the Arsenal backline.
And his experience of working under Arteta could help him quickly integrate into his new team. It is important to note here that it could also help Arsenal in their negotiations with Manchester City.
A perfect tactical fit
What makes Stones such an appealing target for Arsenal is his style of play. The Man City defender is primarily known for his ability to circulate possession from the back and ease his side’s build-up play.
This is something the current crop of Arsenal defenders have struggled with this season. Hence, Stones’ technical qualities could really come in handy, especially alongside the more robust and physical nature of defenders like Sokratis or Luiz.
That means the 25-year-old can not only provide additional depth in the side, but he can also offer a new dimension in the Arsenal backline – making him a viable target for the Gunners.
