This season seems to be the last for soon to be 32 years old Arsenal centre back Per Mertersacker. The world cup winner only recently lost his place in Arsenal’s first team and with just one year left on his contract after this season, the lanky defender hasn’t been offered a new contract and may be leaving the club at the end of his current contract.
And according to daily mirror, Arsenal already in the market for a new centre back and have their eyes fixed on PSG’s Marquinhos. The Brazilian has struggled for regular playing time under manager Laurent Blanc with David Luiz the preferred choice. Marquinhos has mostly been played at out position which has not gone down well with the Brazilian.
Arsenal have already been linked with the signing of AS Roma’s Kostas Manola but it appears Chelsea are in the driving seat for the signature of the Greek star hence the links with Marquinhos makes a lot of sense. The Brazilian is a very good centre back and considering he is still 21-year-old, his signing means Arsenal will finally have a reliable centre back who will be around for several years to come.
However, Manchester United have been linked to the player too. According to reports, the Red devils will attempt to beat Arsenal to the PSG star’s signing as they look to rebuild their defence line.
Reportedly available for £25 million, the fee involved can’t be a big for problem for both Arsenal and Manchester United but what could be a problem for United is the fact that Arsenal can tempt the Brazilian with the offer of Champions league football something United can’t boost of after today’s 3-0 defeat to Tottenham.
