The Arsenal man is a reported transfer target for Newcastle United and West Bromwich Albion, but Everton should challenge them for his signature.
Everton manager Ronald Koeman
Toffees boss Ronald Koeman will be looking to add some genuine quality to his squad this summer, as he looks to build on this season’s seventh placed finish in the Premier League, and mount an assault on the Champions League spots.
One area where the Dutchman is reportedly keen on strengthening is the left-back position, with Leighton Baines on the wrong side of 32, but recent reports from the Liverpool Echo suggest that Everton’s pursuit of Chelsea full-back Baba Rahman has hit the buffers, due to concerns over the Ghanaian’s injury issues.
Arsenal’s Kieran Gibbs in action
With this in mind, Koeman should consider joining Newcastle and West Brom in the race for Gunners star Kieran Gibbs, with the Mirror reporting that the 27-year-old is available for £15 million.
The 10-capped England international appears to be surplus to requirements at the Emirates, and Everton’s financial muscle should enable them to easily challenge their Premier League rivals for his signature.
Gibbs would offer the Blues an added threat down the left hand side, what with his natural attacking instincts, and he would provide fantastic competition for the ageing Baines.
Also, £15 million does not seem like too much of an extortionate price, especially in today’s inflated transfer market.
Arsenal’s Kieran Gibbs in action
One potential concern for the Toffees, however, will be Gibbs’ fragile nature, with his less-than-impressive injury record. He has made just 230 appearances for Arsenal since he joined the club in 2006, and his weak mentality has been questioned on more than one occasion.
A move to Goodison Park would provide him with the opportunity to prove himself once again though, and playing under a manager who places more emphasis on tactical discipline could give him just the impetus he needs to fulfil his true potential.
Arsenal’s Kieran Gibbs in action
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