Report: Arsenal eyeing two Premier League centre backs ahead of summer re-shuffle

Ahead of the summer, Andrea Berta is already focussing on how he can fine-tune this Arsenal squad to ensure long-term success.

One area that’s had less media attention is defence, but it’s certainly one the club are looking at, as well as more attacking reinforcements.

According to Graeme Bailey, Arsenal are looking to add a new central defender to their squad in the upcoming transfer window, with Brentford’s Nathan Collins and Bournemouth youngster Dean Huijsen both linked. But with Jakub Kiwior stepping up in recent weeks, is a new signing truly necessary?

The Gunners have reportedly expressed interest in Huijsen, the 19-year-old Juventus prospect currently impressing at Bournemouth. A full breakdown of that story can be found in our previous report on Arsenal’s interest in Huijsen. There’s clear long-term potential in Huijsen, and at 6ft 5in with comfort on the ball, he fits the mould of a modern Arsenal centre-back. According to Goal, the Spanish defender is already attracting widespread attention across Europe.

Meanwhile, Nathan Collins continues to build on a strong campaign at Brentford. The 23-year-old has emerged as a composed, physical presence at the back and was even tracked by Manchester United last summer. A move to Arsenal would undoubtedly be a step up, and Collins has the profile to thrive under Mikel Arteta’s tutelage. The Athletic highlighted Collins’ potential and composure when Brentford made him their record signing last summer.

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Yet it’s hard to ignore the form of Jakub Kiwior, who has quietly gone about his business with impressive maturity. The Polish international has delivered composed, high-level performances on some of the biggest stages in European football, including the Champions League knockout rounds. Football.London recently praised Kiwior’s consistency and reliability during a crucial run of fixtures.

With William Saliba and Gabriel established as the starting pair, adding another centre-back risks crowding the position — especially when Kiwior has shown he’s good enough to compete. The benefit of Huijsen vs. Kiwior is the Spaniard’s ability to play both on the left and right side of defence, whereas Kiwior looks a lot more comfortable on the left.

The decision may come down to squad depth and long-term planning, but based on current evidence, Arsenal might already have their solution within. Trusting Kiwior could free up funds for other areas — and show players that good performances are rewarded with opportunities.

Much will depend on any offer that arrives for Kiwior and the players own desires. He may well have ambitions to go and play every week and whilst Gabriel and Saliba are here, that’s unlikely to happen at Arsenal.

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