Arsenal’s defensive frailties were exposed once again in their humiliation against Bayern last week with players like Arjen Robben and Phillip Lahm continuously exploiting the left-back Kieran Gibbs that led to the first goal. Wenger’s decision to deploy Alex Iwobi up further exacerbated the situation.
The only other option in that position, Nacho Monreal, has immensely struggled for pace often finding himself getting outrun on the wings. Getting a potent player there will definitely be one of Arsenal’s prime targets this summer. And according to reports, Arsenal got a huge boost in their pursuit of long-term target Ricardo Rodriguez, as Inter Milan are unwilling to match his release clause.
The full-back is looking to move away from his current club Wolfsburg and although Inter have been the closest to landing him, the recent developments have yet again thrown his future wide open. The 24-year-old has a release clause of £18.5m, which expires on July 1 every year, but Inter cannot match that. Reportedly, the Italian club are offering £12.7m plus bonuses for Rodriguez, which could allow Arsenal and Chelsea to swoop in with an improved bid.
An attack-minded player by nature, Rodriguez can work tirelessly up and down the flank and can chip in with some devilish crosses into the box. Apart from creating chances, the Swiss international also has a sharp eye for goal, which makes him dangerous both from open play as well as from set-pieces.
Quite clearly the best player VFL Wolfsburg currently have in their squad, it will be difficult for the club to stop him now with former teammate Julian Draxler making a big-money move to Paris Saint-Germain and starring in the huge win against Barcelona. In his 17 appearances, so far, he has won 20 tackles this season with a success rate of 54%. He has made 27 interceptions, 46 clearances and nine blocks. He has scored 2 goals so far.
His big frame makes him pretty strong in the air, and his knack for perfecting his tackles also make him one of the favoured candidates in the one-on-one situations that Arsenal often find themselves in.
Arsenal are going through a tough time this season with hardly any competition left for them to fight for. Premier League is pretty much out of the equation with Chelsea leading the table with nine points and as far as Champions League is concerned, Arsenal are incapable of producing the miracle that can keep them in the competition. It’d wise if the Gunners start planning for next season.
