According to The Sun, Arsenal are plotting a sensational £97 million swoop for three Spanish players in Unai Nunez, Carlos Soler and Marc Roca. Manager Mikel Arteta is reportedly prepared to use his knowledge of Spanish football to strengthen Arsenal in the summer as he looks to usher in a new era at the Emirates following a promising start to his tenure.
Unai Nunez: The answer to Arsenal’s defensive crisis?
Nunez has been regarded as one of the upcoming defensive talents in La Liga. Since his promotion to the Athletic Bilbao first-team in 2017, he has made 69 competitive appearances for the club.
Nunez is a modern centre-back. Blessed with pace and technical prowess, the Spaniard is capable of easing the build-up play. Standing at 1.86m, he is also a physically imposing defender, who is dominant in the air, having notably won 2.5 headed duels per game this season.
The Athletic Bilbao star could be a perfect addition to the Arsenal backline. His technical prowess would combine well with someone like Sokratis or Shkodran Mustafi. However, it won’t be surprising to see the 23-year-old taking time in settling into the fast-paced nature of the Premier League.
Marc Roca: The ideal partner of Granit Xhaka
Signing Roca would be nothing less than a masterstroke by Arteta. The Espanyol star is a defensive midfielder by trade and often stands out when it comes to providing balance during the defensive phases of the game. Not to mention, he is a fierce tackler, having attempted almost four tackles per game in the La Liga this season.
Also, Roca averages over one interception, clearances and aerial duel per game while attaining a pass completion rate of 80%. His defence-oriented game could combine well with the robust yet technical figure of Granit Xhaka. It will give the Swiss international much more freedom so he can use his superior passing range to add a new dimension to Arsenal’s possession game.
Carlos Soler: The contingency plan for Mesut Ozil?
It is clear that Dani Ceballos is set to return to Santiago Bernabeu summer. His departure, however, could create a void in the creative unit. This is combined with the fact that star playmaker Mesut Ozil has not been able to make the desired impact. And that’s where Soler could come in handy for Arsenal.
Although a right-sided midfielder by trade, the Valencia star is capable of providing the creative essence in the final third. His technical prowess, coupled with his excellent positioning, could help Arsenal become more effective when it comes to creating chances in the final third.
In a way, Soler can be considered as a contingency plan for Ozil. In fact, it won’t be surprising to see the German leaving Emirates in the summer, in which case, the Spaniard will be regarded as a direct replacement.
Stat courtesy: Whoscored
