Arsenal have a lot of work to do during the summer transfer window in order to secure the competition in the squad they need to mount a better title challenge on Manchester City. The gap between the two sides was evident on Wednesday as the champions ran out 4-1 winners on the night to secure control of the race for the top spot in the Premier League.
There is a need for upgrades in all areas of the field but after the injuries to William Saliba and Takehiro Tomiyasu, it has become evident that the defensive third is a specific place where investment will be needed. At right-back and right-sided centre-half, there’s room for improvement.
However, despite the January arrival of Jakub Kiwior, a left-sided centre-half, the Poland international could appear in for more fight than just starting option Gabriel Magalhaes. In the summer of 2022, Arsenal loaned out American international Auston Trusty and the defender has made an impression.
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Birmingham City head coach John Eustace has spoken highly of his temporary defensive star. Citing Trusty’s readiness to play in the Premier League and confirming he will be returning to Arsenal.
“The way he has adapted has been exceptional as Auston didn’t know the Championship,” Eustace expressed last week.
“He came in off the back of 30 games in the MLS, so he was match ready. He’s been a pleasure to work with, his training standards have been very high, he never misses a day, and I think he’s taken to the level quite easily. You can see he’s going to go back to Arsenal as a Premier League player.”
Trusty has played not only as a left-sided centre-half but also left-back. He has impressed with his versatility to play in a back three, back four or even back five.
Kieran Tierney and Nuno Tavares’ futures remain in doubt for the summer and perhaps Trusty could provide the alternative style of full-back that Mikel Arteta has developed in this group. At a minimum, he is sure to strengthen the depth of the squad with his summer arrival.
Alternatively, having paid a small figure by today’s standards Arsenal could look to cash in on the player. Turning a profit, which is something the club have somewhat struggled with in recent years and often seeing player contracts terminated at a cost instead.
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