According to Le10Sport, as cited by Ronan Murphy, Arsenal have expressed interest in Nico Elvedi. The Borussia Monchengladbach defender has emerged as the latest target, with manager Mikel Arteta keen on bolstering his defensive options this summer. Elvedi is highly-rated in the Bundesliga, but his Gladbach contract expires at the end of next season.
Nico Elvedi’s success at Borussia Monchengladbach
Elvedi joined Gladbach back in 2015, in a €4 million move from FC Zurich. Since then, he has gradually established himself as an ever-present figure in the club’s defensive unit, having already made 158 competitive appearances.
Especially over the past 12 months, Elvedi has created a formidable defensive partnership alongside Matthias Ginter. The two are considered to be key components in Marco Rose’s tactical setup that has helped Gladbach re-establish themselves as one of the best clubs in the Bundesliga.
Indeed, Elvedi’s swift passing, with an accuracy rate of 91% has improved the club’s build-up from the back. He has also impressed the onlookers with his defensive contributions, notably averaging 3.5 clearances per game as well as attaining a tackle success rate of 69%.
However, what makes Elvedi such a sought-after defender in the Bundesliga is his ability to read the game. The Swiss international has completed 58 interceptions this season – a tally only bettered by Sven Bender (59) and Omar Mascarell (62) in the league so far.
Arsenal have expressed interest in Nico Elvedi: The right choice by Arteta?
Elvedi could be an ideal solution to Mikel Arteta’s defensive problems at Arsenal next season. As mentioned earlier, the Gladbach defender is known for his defensive commitment, which is complemented by his excellent passing range and an ability to read the game.
That means the 23-year-old could form a solid defensive partnership with someone like David Luiz. His technical approach and aggression could combine well with the Brazilian’s more robust style of play. Not to mention, Luiz’s experience could benefit his Swiss counterpart.
From a tactical perspective, Elvedi’s brilliant passing could significantly decrease Arsenal’s reliance on the fullbacks when it comes to oscillating the play.
Another key factor is his ability to move forward and cut out passing lanes, meaning the Gladbach lynchpin could be employed even in a three-man defensive system, with two relatively more defensive-minded centre-backs providing support. It could come in handy given Arsenal’s lack of a reliable a holding midfield option.
Moreover, Elvedi has time on his side and could turn out to be an asset for Arsenal in the future, thus making him a smart investment for the Gunners.
Stat courtesy: Whoscored
