According to Dean Jones, as reported by Daily Star, Arsenal have been alerted to the situation of Merih Demiral. It is believed that the Juventus defender could leave the club in January if his game-time does not improve. As a result, both Arsenal and Manchester United are eyeing a move for the defender, with the winter transfer window just around the corner.
Demiral’s struggles at Juventus
Demiral initially moved to Juventus in the summer for a fee of €18m. He joined the Turin club after an excellent spell at Sassuolo, where he had become one of the most promising centre-backs in the Serie A.
However, as one would have expected, Demiral has struggled to get enough game-time at Juventus. The big-money arrival of Dutch sensation Matthijs de Ligt in the summer has minimised his overall playing time to just 90 minutes of league football so far.
Moreover, despite the injury of Giorgio Chiellini, manager Maurizio Sarri has continued to rely on the ageing Leonardo Bonucci rather than giving Demiral more opportunities. Not to mention, there is Daniele Rugani as well, although the Italian has also faced similar problems at Juve this season.
Hence, a move away from Turin in the upcoming January transfer window makes him sense as Demiral attempts to find more opportunities.
Should Arsenal make a move for Demiral?
Despite the signing of David Luiz in the summer, Arsenal’s defensive problems are still prevalent in this new season. Both Sokratis and David Luiz have failed to provide defensive solidity, meaning Unai Emery must sign a new defender in January if he is to have any hopes of solving his side’s problems at the back.
Demiral, in that regard, may not be a bad option. As mentioned earlier, the Turkish talent had enjoyed a decent spell at Sassuolo and has proved that he can perform at the highest level of football.
From a stylistic point of view, Demiral’s imposing 1.9m frame coupled with his ability to read the game could minimise Arsenal’s defensive frailties. Furthermore, the 21-year-old loves to make a tackle and is also a threat from set-pieces, thus adding another dimension to the Gunners’ defensive department.
Therefore, Emery should undoubtedly make a move for Demiral in January. It could be a good idea to sell Shkodran Mustafi, whose departure could help Arsenal fund a move for the Turkish international. But either way, it would be interesting to see whether or not the north London giants succeed in securing his services in the winter transfer window.
