Arsenal’s summer target, Jack Butland is reportedly favouring a move to Liverpool due to the presence of Jurgen Klopp. The Reds are also prepared the break the bank by shelling out £40m for the Stoke City shot-stopper, which would make him the world’s most expensive player in the position, ahead of Manchester City’s Ederson.
Butland has been a refreshing presence in the Potters lineup for the better part of the season. If Stoke City fail to escape relegation by the end of the season, it would be difficult to hold onto such a high pedigree player.
After playing in the Premier League for the last 4-and-a-half years, Butland has racked up quite an impressive work resume. He has racked up 22 clean sheets in 79 total appearances for Stoke despite playing second-fiddle to Asmir Begovic in his early days.
Butland will be the prime answer to Liverpool’s goalkeeper issues but where does it leave Arsenal? Petr Cech is the current number one choice for Arsene Wenger with David Ospina delegated to a more secondary role. The 35-year-old Czech Republic international has been on the unfortunate end of some dodgy moments this season and it has left a few fans questioning his goalkeeping abilities.
Since Butland’s case is no longer in the conversation from strong consideration, here are a few alternatives Arsene Wenger should consider ahead of the summer transfer window.
Gianluigi Donnarumma
The AC Milan shot-stopper was forced to concede 2 goals in the First Leg of the UEFA Europa League Round Of 16 match at San Siro, against Arsenal themselves. The North London side put on a show while being away from home and this could prove to be the convincing factor in Donnarumma’s decision for the following season.
The 19-year-old’s relationship with the Serie A outfit is strained after refusing to sign a contract extension earlier in the season. He has even reduced to tears after an array of boos and whistles were thrown his way in a game earlier in the season.
Chelsea are heading the race for the highly rated Italian international but Arsenal could be in the driving seat by preparing an improved bid.
Kevin Trapp
The Paris Saint-Germain number 2 shot-stopper is reportedly frustrated with the Ligue 1 giants having been demoted to a less dignified rotational role. Trapp’s talents are deserved of a first-team spot and a transfer is looking more than likely as the season winds down to a close.
Jan Oblak
He is one of the best goalkeepers of Europe and is currently under contract with Atletico Madrid. Arsenal were linked with the Slovenian earlier in the season but would require serious convincing to bring him to the Emirates.
