According to Sky Sports, Bordeaux and Stade Rennais are in talks with Arsenal to sign Laurent Koscielny. But, the latest update from Sky claims that neither of the clubs are yet to meet the Gunners’ valuation for the defender. The Frenchman is determined to leave the Emirates. But, should Arsenal persuade him to stay beyond this summer?
Lack of defensive reliable defensive options
Arsenal boast no less than five central defensive options at the moment, excluding Koscielny. But, the much-maligned Shkodran Mustafi already showed that his form isn’t getting any better with a disastrous display against Barcelona in the pre-season friendly. The German has also been linked with a move to AS Monaco.
Meanwhile, new signing William Saliba has returned to St. Etienne on a season-long loan deal. He initially joined the club earlier this summer but will not be available at Emery’s disposal in the upcoming season.
As for the young defensive duo of Rob Holding and Konstantinos Mavrapanos, both have struggled with injuries. They are also quite inexperienced at the highest level of football, raising doubts as to whether or not they will be viable options for Emery.
And finally, Calum Chambers is unlikely to play a significant role in the first-team either, after returning from his loan spell at Fulham. Hence, Koscielny’s prolonged stay at Emirates would have provided Emery with an additional option in central defence.
Koscielny’s experience and leadership will be useful
Koscielny is one of the most experienced defenders currently playing in the Premier League. Since joining Arsenal in 2010, the Frenchman has made over 350 competitive appearances. But most importantly, he has the exposure of playing in the Premier League, notably featuring in over 250 matches in the English top flight.
Therefore, the presence of Koscielny, with all his experience, could have been useful for an otherwise young Arsenal setup that desperately needs leadership. The 33-year-old’s departure, in that regard, will be a massive blow for the club.
Speaking of leadership, Koscielny is also the only viable leader at the back for Arsenal at the moment, following Petr Cech’s retirement and the departure of Stephan Lichtsteiner.
Arsenal’s hands are tied
It’s rather evident that Koscielny staying at Emirates in the upcoming season will be invaluable for Arsenal. But at the same time, the Gunners have their hands tied, especially with the player hell-bent on leaving North London this summer.
Even though both Bordeaux and Rennes are yet to match Arsenal’s asking price for the defender, it’s unlikely they will want to budge on that given the quality of the player.
