One position that Mikel Arteta desperately needs to bolster for Arsenal this summer is the left-back department.
While Kieran Tierney was missing, the Spaniard had to play Granit Xhaka on the left of defence due to the lack of depth.
Of course, Bukayo Saka and Cedric can also operate there, but there isn’t really an out-and-out backup for Tierney.
Well, that could change if Arsenal make a bid for Beşiktaş left-back Ridvan Yilmaz, who sounds very keen to join the Gunners.
Speaking to TRT Spor, the 19-year-old said: “My goal is to make money for Beşiktaş and leave here. Of course, I want to go to Europe.
“I want to hear England, but it is a very difficult league. At first, the Premier League may be difficult for me. I dream of going to Arsenal.”
Now, this could be exactly what Arteta needs.
It might be hard to find a senior option to deputise for Tierney, as they may not be as willing to warm the bench.
However, a teenager from Turkey, who aspires to play for Arsenal, might be happier to do just that as he learns his trade.
Don’t get us wrong – Arsenal shouldn’t just sign him because he wants the move.
Yilmaz appears to be a very promising prospect. He made 18 appearances as Beşiktaş won the Süper Lig by one goal.
In those outings, he scored once and provided two assists.
Yilmaz has also just been included in Turkey’s squad for EURO 2020, which is a fine achievement for someone so young.
It speaks volumes that he has been included, despite never previously winning a single cap for his country.
If Arteta does want a backup left-back this summer, Yilmaz would be a great option.
He presumably wouldn’t cost a lot coming from the Süper Lig, and also given his relatively low profile in the game.
The danger here is that he impresses at EURO 2020, everyone becomes aware of the his talents, and his value shoots up.
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