In a recent report, Goal.com has revealed that Barcelona are in talks with Arsenal defender Shkodran Mustafi’s agent Emre Ozturk to discuss a potential move at the end of this campaign. The German centre-back’s current contract with the Gunners is set to expire next summer, so he would be free to come to a pre-contract agreement with another club from the start of next month with Barca interested in bringing him back to Spain (via goal.com).
Mustafi’s Lack Of Game Time At The English Capital This Season
The 28-year-old has endured a frustrating season at North London after struggling to earn regular first-team starts under Mikel Arteta’s stewardship. He has taken part in eight matches for his current employers this term, securing two yellow cards in the process on all fronts.
However, the German talent deserves credit for producing some decent numbers in defence despite his lack of game time this season. Mustafi has caught the eye in Europe where he is averaging 1.2 tackles, 1.2 interceptions, 1.8 clearances and 0.8 shots per game in the UEFA Europa League group stages. He has also been accurate with his ball-distribution as he has completed 89% of his attempted passes in European football (stats via whoscored).
Mustafi is in dire need to seek a move away from the Emirates Stadium if he is serious about getting his career back on track. At 28, the German defensive ace is currently at the peak stage of his playing career, so he could be tempted with a chance to seal a move to the Nou Camp next summer.
What Will The German International Add To Ronald Koeman’s Side?
Mustafi is a physically strong centre-back who can win a few headers at the back to clear the danger when required. He has got a great leap in him and is usually quite aggressive when competing for the loose ball inside his half. However, his over-eagerness to go in for tackles can sometimes lead to him giving away needless fouls both inside and outside the penalty box. Furthermore, he lacks the pace to track back when caught out of position, which can sometimes make him a liability on the pitch.
Is Mustafi A Good Fit For The Catalans?
At the moment, Mustafi is not playing well, so Barca would be taking a gamble if they decide to offer him a contract when his deal with Arsenal runs out at the end of this season. He is prone to making errors at the back and can miss a lot of matches due to injury.
Hence, Ronald Koeman would be better off signing someone else rather than opt for Mustafi, who would not be a good fit at the Nou Camp. The 20-time German international does have the qualities needed to be an ideal fix to Barca’s defensive problems and would only cause more uncertainty in the coming years.
