According to a recent report by Cadena Ser, Arsenal are lining up a move to secure the services of Fernando Calero from Real Valladolid when the transfer window commences at the start of next month. The same report goes on to state that the La Liga centre-back, who has also been linked with a move to Sevilla and Borussia Dortmund, has a £10m release clause in his contract with Valladolid.
Calero’s Career In Spanish Football
Calero grew up playing football in Spain and started off his career playing for Malaga. He came through the Spanish club’s youth ranks before sealing a move to Atlético Malagueño to play in the third tier of Spanish football.
Valladolid decided to take a chance on him in the summer of 2016. Since his switch to the Estadio José Zorrilla, the Spanish defender has gone on to make 46 appearances for their senior team and has two goals to his name across all competitions.
He is still a relatively unknown prospect, but his incredible performances during this campaign has helped Valladolid climb to the 12th place in the La Liga standings, six points above the relegation zone.
What Will Calero Bring To The Emirates Stadium?
Calero is a very reliable defender who is quite pacey and is also good in the air. The Spanish centre-back is not afraid to put in a substantial shift and can make some timely interceptions when the pressure is on him to deliver on the pitch. However, he is not an accurate passer of the ball which could be a problem for Arsenal as Emery’s style of play requires his defenders to distribute the ball out from the back.
A Shrewd Move For The Gunners?
The addition of Calero will be an excellent short-term addition, but the Valladolid prospect is not a top-class defender yet so he won’t add too much quality to Emery’s squad. However, he could be a worthy option to replace Rob Holding, who is currently sidelined with a long-term injury.
If the Arsenal manager is looking to replace Holding on the cheap, then it makes sense for him to move in for Calero. Otherwise, the North London giants are better off signing players who can significantly improve the quality of their squad.
