Arsenal have one of the best defensive record in the Premier League this season, despite injuries to their defenders on several occasions throughout the course of the 2015-16 campaign.
Arsene Wenger has decided to further bolster his back four as the Gunners look to challenge for silverwares. The Frenchman is targeting Juventus centre-back Daniele Rugani as he wants to make sure his side’s defensive unit remains stronger in the upcoming seasons.
According to Tuttosport, the north London club remain confident of signing the 21-year-old defender. He is attracting interest from Lazio, Fiorentina, Sampdoria and Genoa. Despite the interest from these Italian clubs, Arsenal believe they can beat these teams in capturing Rugani.
He came up through the ranks of Empoli’s youth system before joining Juventus on a season-long loan deal 2012. After impressive, the Old Lady signed him on a permanent transfer and loan him back to his former club in 2013.
Rugani spent two seasons with his former club and played a crucial role in helping Empoli achieve promotion to Serie A last season. The central defender made 40 appearances and was the star player for them.
Napoli are the firm admirers of Rugani and are willing to pay €25m for the Italian defender. They are aware of his potential and are keen on securing his signature. This season, he has seen his first team appearances being limited. Sampdoria and Genoa are willing to take him on loan.
Napoli coach Maurizio Sarri is aware of Rugani’s talent and he believes the centre-half is the best young player in Italy.
“For me it is Rugani [who is the best young Italian player]. He has excellent capabilities and concentration. I gave him his debut as an 18-year-old. He will be a very important player for the future of Italian football,” he told Corriere dello Sport.
Wenger has Per Mertesacker and Laurent Koscielny, who are above 30, along with Gabriel Paulista as the three centre-backs in the squad, along with Calum Chambers. Signing Rugani will see him learn from both the World Cup winner with Germany and the France international at Arsenal.
Add Sportslens to your Google News Feed!
