Arsenal want to sign a new backup right-back this summer, football.london understands. However, Mikel Arteta and technical director Edu will be forced to consider other options following a serious injury sustained by a reported transfer target at the weekend.
Southampton's Tino Livramento received oxygen as he was stretchered off during the Saints' clash against Brighton on Sunday after he appeared to twist his leg during an unfortunate challenge in the first half.
The Daily Mail is now reporting that the defender is set to spend around eight to nine months on the sidelines as a result of a significant ACL injury which requires surgery. Livramento, who is valued between £16.8m-£25.3m by CIES Football Observatory, has become a key member of Ralph Hasenhüttl's side at 19-years of age, scoring one goal and providing two assists in 28 Premier League appearances.
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His ability in both a defensive and offensive capacity has made him a standout this season, possessing pace, energy and quality on the ball. A number of impressive performances are said to have caught the eye of Arsenal, who were monitoring his progress closely. But any potential move this summer is now off the cards, according to Daily Express reporter Ryan Taylor.
The Gunners are believed to be keen on strengthening the right-back spot after Takehiro Tomiyasu endured struggles of his own with injury this season. The Japanese international missed eight games due to reoccurring calf problems before finally returning against Manchester United on Saturday.
It meant that second choice Cedric Soares became the regular starter at right-back for a crucial part of the season. Despite putting in some encouraging displays, the difference in quality was clear to see, leaving big concerns amongst supporters.
In addition to the Premier League permitting the use of five substitutions next season, Arsenal will likely find themselves back in European competition meaning strength in depth will be key for Arteta's squad as they prepare for a busy campaign.
As well as the interest shown in Livramento, Middlesbrough loanee Djed Spence and Norwich City's Max Aarons have also been linked with a move to the Emirates. Meanwhile, academy talent Brooke Norton-Cuffy has been doing well on loan at Lincoln City, but a lack of experience currently means he's unlikely to become a regular first-team figure. Other internal solutions to have been mentioned include Ben White and William Saliba, with both capable of playing as full-backs.
Whoever Arteta and Edu opt for, there's a growing acceptance that a new right-back must arrive in order to bolster the overall quality within the position. Tomiyasu's injury troubles along with Cedric's inconsistencies are asking for trouble if sufficient action is not taken this summer.
