According to Il Messaggero, Arsenal were interested in signing Lazio goalkeeper Thomas Strakosha before landing Mathew Ryan.
The Gunners swooped to sign Ryan on loan from Brighton and Hove Albion on Friday, landing him until the end of the season.
The Australian provides proven competition and cover for Bernd Leno after Runar Runarsson struggled, but he seemingly wasn’t the only player they looked at.
Italian newspaper Il Messaggero report that Arsenal were interested in Lazio stopper Strakosha, and even had a swap deal in mind.
They were allegedly willing to pay cash plus defender Shkodran Mustafi to get a deal done, but no agreement was reached.
The Daily Mail now report that Arsenal are in talks to terminate Mustafi’s contract, months ahead of his deal expiring this summer.
The 28-year-old is a bit-part player at Arsenal, and he may actually be disappointed that a move to the Italian capital hasn’t materialised.
As for Strakosha, the Albanian has only started six league games this season, but has shown quality throughout his time with Lazio.
Ryan ultimately proved to be the deal for Arsenal, but Strakosha could yet pop back onto the radar this summer if Ryan doesn’t join permanently.
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