

According to Sport, Barcelona could make a move for Shkodran Mustafi. The Arsenal defender has been identified as one of the potential targets for the Spanish giants, who are desperate to reinforce their defensive department. Although Eric Garcia of Manchester City remains their top target, Mustafi, along with his German national teammate Antonio Rudiger are among players courted as alternatives.
Shkodran Mustafi’s Spell Under Mikel Arteta
Last season, Mustafi was one of several Arsenal defenders who improved under Mikel Arteta. The much-maligned central defender even played a key role in the club’s FA Cup-winning campaign but was unfortunate to pick up an injury that kept him out on the sidelines in the summer.
To add to his misfortunes, Arsenal have found a lot of success in the defensive department following the arrival of Gabriel Magalhaes. The Brazilian centre-back has emerged as a defensive lynchpin for the Gunners while the likes of Rob Holding and David Luiz have also provided reliable options in the first-team for the Arsenal manager.
As a result, Mustafi has featured in just four matches in all competitions so far, two of which have come in the UEFA Europa League. Following the performances of Holding and Gabriel, it appears that the German international may have to settle for a bit-part role at Emirates from now on.

Why Arteta Should Offload Mustafi
Despite his excellent run of form during the backend of last season, Mustafi is not a fit for Arsenal anymore for multiple reasons. Arteta, in particular, has made a lot of changes to his system this term, including the re-introduction of the four-man backline that has reduced the defender’s chances of getting more first-team minutes.
Not to mention, the Gunners already have a plethora of options available in central defence, including Kieran Tierney, Luiz, Gabriel and Holding while both Calum Chambers and Pablo Mari are soon expected to return to full fitness. The departures of fringe players like Mustafi and Sokratis, therefore, could potentially serve as a financial boost for the club. It could also prevent the unnecessary stacking of players in the defensive unit.
That is where Mustafi’s potential move to FC Barcelona could bode well for Arsenal, as they look to restructure their wage bill following the addition of Thomas Partey in the summer. However, the German’s move away from Emirates could hinge on Barcelona’s success in their pursuit of Eric Garcia and whether or not they choose Mustafi as their desired alternative.
- MOTM Winks Get 9/10 | Tottenham Hotspur Players Rated In Win Over Wycombe - January 25, 2021
- Arsenal Among Clubs Monitoring Progress Of Crystal Palace Ace: A Smart Choice By Arteta? - January 25, 2021
- Leeds United Backed To Sign This Derby County Star This January: A Good Option For Bielsa? - January 25, 2021
more recommended stories
-
Arsenal Among Clubs Monitoring Progress Of Crystal Palace Ace: A Smart Choice By Arteta?
According to Evening Standard, Arsenal are.
Barcelona Plotting Two Huge Transfers | Does Both These Transfers Make Sense?
Barcelona are poised to go big.
Tierney And Smith Rowe Returns | Predicted 4-2-3-1 Arsenal Lineup Vs Southampton
Arsenal are in search of retribution.
Gabriel Disappoints With A 2/10 | Arsenal Players Rated In Their Defeat To Southampton
Defending champions Arsenal are out of.
Pedri Starts, Griezmann To Lead The Attack | 4-3-3 Barcelona Predicted Line-Up Vs Elche
Barcelona make the trip to Elche.
Arsenal Emerge As Shock Destination For Real Madrid Youngster: A Massive Coup For Arteta?
According to Sky Sports, Arsenal have.
Gabriel, Pepe And Martinelli Set To Return | Predicted 4-2-3-1 Arsenal Lineup Vs Southampton
Arsenal are hoping to continue their.
Arsenal Prepared To Offer This Young Midfielder A New Contract: Good Move For Both Parties?
The Daily Mail has recently mentioned.
Griezmann Starts | 4-3-3 Barcelona Predicted Line-Up Against Cornella
Barcelona make the trip across town.
Arsenal Face Setback In Pursuit Of Barcelona Custodian: A Massive Blow For Arteta?
According to Mundo Deportivo, Barcelona are.
These are just rubbish! Mustafi is too good for Barcelona! Keep it!