Arsenal have brought in an experienced goalkeeper in Mathew Ryan from Brighton and Hove Albion, but could they strike a similar deal in another area?
The Gunners felt that Runar Runarsson just wasn’t good enough as second-choice to Bernd Leno, so a Premier League-tested stopper has arrived in Ryan.
Left back is now an area that Arsenal want to strengthen, looking for experienced competition for Kieran Tierney having let Sead Kolasinac leave for Schalke.
The main name being linked right now is Ryan Bertrand, given that the Southampton ace is out of contract this summer.
Arsenal are seemingly sensing a bargain in Bertrand, and a return to London could be appealing to the Southwark-born former Chelsea man.
The 31-year-old has made more than 200 Premier League appearances for Southampton, and would provide the depth that Arsenal are seeking.
Now, well-informed Arsenal journalist Charles Watts has told his own YouTube channel that Bertrand is stalling on a new deal with the Saints because he wants to join a top-six side.
Watts claims that Arsenal haven’t made contact with Southampton yet, but have spoken to Bertrand’s representatives about a deal, with the left back now aware of Arsenal’s interest; with just a week of the window to go though, there isn’t much time for the Gunners to swoop.
“He’s got six months left on the deal there. Southampton want him to sign a new deal; he is stalling on it though, he wants to go to a top-six club,” said Watts. “And I’ve heard that Arsenal are exploring the option of Ryan Bertrand.”
“No official contact made with Southampton yet, but there has been contact with representatives. And Bertrand is aware of Arsenal’s interest so that’s one to keep an eye on,” he added.
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