Arsenal consider Omer Toprak and Simon Kjaer as alternatives to Shkodran Mustafi
Aug 16, 2016 at 11:25 AM
According to reports in English daily Metro, Arsenal are eyeing a move for the defensive duo – Omer Toprak of Bayer Leverkusen and Simon Kjaer of Fenerbahce- to strengthen their backline in case a deal for Valencia defender Shkodran Mustafi does not materialise this summer.
With defenders Per Mertesacker and Gabriel injured, Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger is desperate to sign a centre-back. And after his defenders’ dismal performance against Liverpool in the season opener where they conceded 4 goals, the pressure on Wenger is bound to increase especially after a period which saw the Gunners spending only a little in the transfer market.
Turkey international Toprak, who has represented Turkey in 23 matches, joined the Bayer Leverkusen from Freiburg in 2011 while 27-year old Denmark international Kjaer, who has won 59 international caps, signed for Fenerbahce from Lille in 2015.
Meanwhile, the North London club is also on the lookout for a striker before the August 31 deadline, and their prime target Alexandre Lacazette said on Monday he is open to a move.