Arsenal are looking to bolster their options at left back and have targeted Valencia’s Jose Gaya as a prime target.
According to the Mirror, Arsenal view Gaya as the perfect summer signing. The 21-year old is one of Europe’s most highly rated youngsters and would provide immediate competition to Nacho Monreal.
Kieran Gibbs has yet to be offered a new deal with 18 months left on his current one. The England international had been slotted as one of the players to leave last summer but a move never materialized. Gibbs lost his place to Monreal two seasons ago and hasn’t been able to reclaim it since. In 12 appearances, four from the bench, Gibbs has played well, but at 27 years old, needs regular first team football.
Monreal turns 31 later this season and Arsenal do not have a young left back in the wings. Gaya would provide good competition to his Spanish compatriot while serving as an understudy. With Hector Bellerin on the books as well, Arsenal would have a solid Spanish contingent, which would help Gaya adjust to London life.
Many, including the Mirror, see Arsenal’s transfer movement as a sign that Arsene Wenger is set to sign a contract extension. The manager’s deal ends at the end of the season and he has given no indication what lies ahead.
Regardless of Wenger’s future, Arsenal still have to make transfer plans so any new signings, or plans to make them, should not be solely tied down to Wenger’s future.
