Arsene Wenger is poised to splash the cash this month and bring in Lyon’s powerful left-back Aly Cissokho to cure a long-standing problem area that has only gotten worse with recent injury woes.
Cissokho was very much on the Gunners’ radar last summer but the prudent professor was put off by the £20m-plus asking price and instead opted for the cheaper Andre Santos from Fenerbache.
Though the Brazilian had been showing signs of improvement until his recent lay-off due to an ankle problem the fear at the Emirates is that he is not up to Premier League quality. Their other alternative Kieren Gibbs is also a concern. Though the youngster’s return to the fray is imminent following his own enforced absence the feeling is that he is too injury prone.
What the Gunners’ would get for their money is a rangy, athletic defender.
The signing of 24-year old Cissokho would solve the Arsenal left-flank problems at a stroke with the added bonus that his price is now more affordable to interested suitors. Lyon’s president recently admitted that they have secured the services of a replacement for the agile Frenchman as they prepare for his inevitable departure while the club itself are believed to be looking at cost-cutting measures, primarily the high wages of some of their star players.
The ex-Porto defender falls into both categories being both one of their best performers over recent campaigns but also being paid accordingly. His wages demands however would come well within the self-imposed structure they keep to at Arsenal.
What the Gunners’ would get for their money is a rangy, athletic defender who shows admirable composure in the final third whilst being exceptionally difficult to beat at the back.
The Cutter is expecting to see an early approach once the window opens to avoid any potential bidding wars for a player much in demand.
