According to Nicolo Schira, Arsenal are among the clubs linked with a move for Kristoffer Ajer. The Celtic centre-back is attracting a lot of interest from clubs across Europe, with Leicester City and AC Milan also interested in his services. Ajer’s current contract at Celtic expires in 2022, but the defender is believed to be valued at £26 million.
Kristoffer Ajer’s success at Celtic
Ajer joined Celtic back in 2016, in a £540k move from Norwegian club Start. He spent the 2016/17 campaign on loan at Kilmarnock before becoming a first-team option for the Hoops the following campaign. He has since gradually become a key member of the Celtic backline, having already notched up 129 competitive appearances for the club.
This season, in particular, the departures of Marvin Compper and Dedryck Boyata have helped Ajer muster 28 league appearances – highest he has managed in a single season during his ongoing four-year spell at Celtic.
The Norwegian has built a formidable partnership alongside new signing Christopher Jullien, helping Celtic retain the joint best defensive record in the league, conceding only 19 goals in 30 matches. Their consistent performances have also been critical in helping the Celts maintain their lead over Rangers in the league table.
What can he add to the table?
Standing at 1.97m, Ajer is a towering figure in the Celtic backline. His massive frame gives him a considerable advantage in the air while making him an intimidating presence for any attacker. As a result, he often shines in physical as well as headed duels, which is truly an asset for a centre-back.
Ajer also has great anticipation that allows him to make excellent tackles. His long legs, combined with his physicality, makes it extremely difficult for an attacker to get past him.
However, what makes the Norwegian such a capable defender is his ability to play the ball out from the back. Despite his tall frame, Ajer has relatively quick feet and can quickly assess his passing options, making him a reliable distributor of possession. His composure on the ball allows him to move forward and more importantly, operate in the right-back slot.
Why Arsenal must sign Ajer
Ajer is just the kind of defender Arsenal have been looking for. His imposing presence will provide more solidity to the Gunners backline that has lacked motivation and leadership this season. Moreover, Ajer’s ability to distribute the ball all around the park will surely add a new dimension to their build-up game.
Moreover, the Celtic ace can provide backup for the likes of Hector Bellerin and Cedric Soares in the right-back slot, thus making him a real asset for Mikel Arteta. The Gunners, therefore, could fancy taking a risk on Ajer this summer although the competition will be immense given the quality of the defender.
