Throughout the January transfer window, it was a well-documented fact that Mikel Arteta wanted a new left-back at Arsenal.
The Mirror claimed that Patrick van Aanholt was being eyed up, after Arsenal were given no encouragement over a deal for his Crystal Palace teammate Tyrick Mitchell.
Elsewhere, the Evening Standard said that Southampton’s Ryan Bertrand was on Arteta’s radar.
The Spaniard was hoping to find a new deputy for Kieran Tierney, after allowing Sead Kolasinac to join Schalke 04.
While a new left-back never arrived, an 18-year-old by the name of Joel Lopez has began training with the first-team, in what is interesting news.
Has Arteta decided to give up his search completely, or is he simply planning to use the teenager as short-term cover?
Whatever his plans are, the timing of Lopez’s inclusion in first-team activities at London Colney is intriguing.
Here’s a photo of the young Spaniard in training, posted by the man himself on Instagram.
In our view, Arteta should’ve put his trust in an academy graduate to deputise for Tierney anyway.
The likes of Bukayo Saka and Emile Smith Rowe have proven to, not just be standout youngsters, but arguably two of Arsenal’s best outright players this season.
In that respect, why can’t Lopez step up too?
There are far more benefits in exposing the youngster to first-team football, rather than spend money on a new face who’s happy to play No.2 to Tierney.
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