Arsenal are reportedly still trying to sign Valencia center back Shkodran Mustafi, but they have now begun a contingency plan in case they are unable to agree on a transfer fee for the German international.
According to Sky Sports, Arsenal are now considering signing Omer Toprak of Bayer Leverkusen as well as Simon Kjaer of Fenerbahce.
Toprak is a 27 year old center back who has made over 100 career appearances in the Bundesliga. He would provide experience and be a good fill in for Arsenal during their injury crisis, and he is good enough to possibly challenge for a permanent spot in the lineup even when everyone is healthy.
Kjaer is another 27 year old who has experience playing in the top leagues in Germany, Italy, France, and Turkey. He has been a solid defender everywhere he has played, and he would definitely help out the Gunners’ currently thin defensive back four.
Mustafi still appears to be the top center back target for Arsenal, but if they are unable to land him, Toprak and Kjaer are realistic alternative options.
