According to Daily Star, Arsenal are keen on securing the services of Jerome Boateng in this January transfer window. The Gunners want to sign the Bayern Munich defender on a short-term loan deal, after which, they are plotting to make a move for Dayot Upamecano in the summer.
Boateng’s potential arrival at the Emirates could provide a solid competition to David Luiz in central defence. And in this article, we will discuss why Mikel Arteta should indeed snub the Brazilian in favour of this Bayern Munich star.
A more composed individual
Evident from his performances at Arsenal this season, Luiz has lacked the sense of composure that was so prevalent in his game some two-three years ago. The ex-Chelsea man has always looked nervy, especially when dealing with a high press or a pacy opposition, thus having an overall effect on the Arsenal backline.
Boateng, in that respect, is a much more composed individual. Hardened by years of experience at the highest level of football, the German barely gets caught up and is incredibly comfortable with the ball at his feet.
A better leader
Boateng is arguably a better leader than Luiz in many aspects. The Bayern Munich star has played alongside a bunch of quality defenders like Mats Hummels and Philipe Lahm and therefore is well aware of the idea of leadership.
Luiz, in contrast, is only considered as a leader because of his experience. He wasn’t really a leader when he was playing at Paris Saint-Germain, alongside the ever-present figure of Thiago Silva. Hence, the Brazilian often appears tentative and sloppy when marshalling the defence and that has been evident in his performances with Arsenal this season.
Boateng can enhance Arsenal’s build-up play
Arsenal have struggled to play the ball out from the back. Sokratis and Luiz’s inability of passing the ball has seen the Gunners often struggling against high pressing opposition. It has also led to the opposition making crucial turnovers in the final third – making it easier for them to initiate quick counter-attacks.
That is something Boateng could certainly address. The 31-year-old is blessed with immense technical quality. Not only he is capable of finding midfielders with his laser passes, but he can also switch the play with his diagonal balls that are often hard to intercept. Hence, the German would surely improve Arsenal’s build-up – making him a more reliable option than Luiz.
