According to The Independent, Manchester City have officially put center back Matija Nastasic on sale, with Arsenal reportedly being the front-runners to get the young center back’s signature. With Thomas Vermaelen very likely to be leaving the Emirates this summer, the Gunners are looking at a variety of options in order to strengthen their defense.
About Nastasic
Nastasic is 21 years old, and although he is less experienced than the likes of Daniel Agger, Mats Hummels, and other center backs Arsenal has been linked with for this summer, all can see the potential that lies in him. He has played more than 30 games for Manchester City, and if he wasn’t so injury prone, it would have likely been much more. City always wanted him and Kompany to be their center back partnership, but now with Mangala likely joining from Sporting, and with Demichelis doing so good at the end of last season, one has to wonder where Nastasic’s future lies.
Transfer Rumor’s Strength
Tuttosport, the original source of this rumour, also claim that Galatasaray, Inter Milan, and Juventus are interested. Several English publications have reported on this possible move so far, linking back to Tuttosport.
It is definitely a possibility for Nastasic to make this move, with Arsene Wenger having expressed his interest in signing a center back this summer. But until more formal negotiations move forward, I give this rumor a strength of 5 out of 10.
Can Matija Help Arsenal?
If this rumor actually came true, Matija Nastasic could be a welcome addition to Arsenal. He is very solid at the back and is a strong player. He definitely needs to improve on his decision-making, and as hinted in the title, his injury frequency will not be a welcome addition to Arsenal’s injury prone squad. He is definitely a player who in the future could be a key star for Arsenal, but in the now, they may need to look elsewhere. I give him a 7 out of 10 for strengthening the squad.
Metro reports Nastasic could go on loan somewhere with a possible permanent deal in the future, and that would be a much better option for Arsenal- this way they can see if he fits in and if he can overcome his injury problems.
Will this move be happening?
With reports coming out that Arsenal is keen on Daniel Agger, and with Arsenal needing someone who can contribute right away and someone who will not be prone to spending time on the sidelines, I give the chance for this happening a 60%.
