Arsenal could steal an ideal transfer target from Tottenham if they are victorious in the North London derby on Thursday evening. RB Leipzig defender Nordi Mukiele has been linked to both clubs recently.
A win for Arsenal against Spurs on Thursday will guarantee a place in the Champions League ahead of next season. Being a part of Europe’s elite competition gives more access to the promising players in world football, as the best players take part in the Champions League.
Alongside Manchester United’s interest in Mukiele according to Foot Mercato, Fellow French news outlet L’Equipe have also reported that Spurs are interested in the player. Arsenal have previously been linked to him, but if the Gunners qualify for the Champions League then it would make them more of an attractive destination ahead of Manchester United or Spurs who would miss out on a spot in Europe’s top tournament.
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The Gunners could require a defender in the summer amid the uncertain futures of William Saliba and Rob Holding, which leaves Arsenal incredibly short in the defensive positions. Mukiele’s potential and versatility could be a tempting factor for Edu to complete a deal.
Arsenal are currently extremely short in the centre-back positions, as Arteta only has three options. If Holding departs at the end of the season, it would make sense for Edu to bring in an additional defender alongside William Saliba, assuming his future remains at the club once his season-long loan ends at Marseille.
Mukiele has played at both centre-back and at right-back throughout his career and has excelled in both positions. The Gunners could also require a full-back signing at the end of the season, meaning Mukiele’s versatility would allow him to cover both areas of the pitch.
Despite the excellent acquisition of Tomiyasu from Bologna in a bargain £19.8m deal, Arteta’s side still requires another right-back in the squad. Due to the sale of Calum Chambers, it means that Tomiyasu has been left with little competition for his spot.
Cedric Soares has been utilized as Tomiyasu’s back-up this campaign, but his performances have shown that he is not at the level that is required for Arsenal to be competing for a regular place in the Champions League. The Portugal international needs to be replaced by a more reliable and younger full-back.
Mukiele fits this profile and would be an excellent acquisition, which is why Arsenal are believed to hold an interest in signing the RB Leipzig defender, according to a report from The Athletic. A win against Tottenham on Thursday evening would certainly put Edu in the driving seat, as he can use the Champions League card to persuade the player to join Arsenal.
