Although it is the right back position, which makes Arsenal really vulnerable with Hector Bellerin as the only viable option, their left-back position isn’t too far off from being in some sort of a crisis.
It is true that Arsene Wenger has a good player in Nacho Monreal down that left flank, who is defensively solid and is a very good reader of the game, but the ageing Spaniard has occasionally shown susceptibility to agile wingers. While Middlesbrough’s Adama Traore gave an early scare to the Gunners, Raheem Sterling nailed it from the right as Monreal found him too hot to handle.
While Wenger surely has a younger and better option in Kieran Gibbs too, the England international has been immensely injury prone, always staying in and out of a league campaign. Even now, he is missing games with ankle problems. Hence, it is quite understandable that Wenger is eyeing to add more options down that flank with a long season ahead of the Gunners.
And as per reports, from Spain, Arsenal are keeping tabs on Valencia left-back Jose Luis Gaya. After shipping in Shkodran Mustafi from the Spanish side, Wenger seems confident that his former teammate could also have a similar impact on the team. Touted by many as one of the best prospects in Europe in that role, 21-year-old Gaya now has many suitors willing to land him.
Valencia have struggled this season and a departure from Mestalla is very much possible for Gaya. Drawing similarities with Jordi Alba, Gaya is a prime example of a modern day left-back, who reads the game perfectly, is really quick on the run and is fully capable of making inward runs and take shots when spaces open up.
Apart from his pace, his experience is another asset. At 21 years of age, he has bagged almost 100 caps at club level, which says a lot about his credibility. Los Blancos were very much impressed by his debut and had a 30 million euro deal ready for the youngster. Things didn’t happen as planned out and the Gunners are fortunate they are in the race to sign him now.
With all the reverse fixtures against the big four still awaiting and the Gunners travelling to Allianz Arena next month for their UEFA Champions League knockout game, Wenger would like to have the proper depth in the squad when they face big opponents. And Gaya could be a brilliant addition to the side, who are known for creating chances in a flash, on the break.
