Arsenal are reportedly lining up a shock move for Branislav Ivanovic. The defender is being lined up as a possible replacement at centre back if the club captain leaves according to The Metro.
Ivanovic would act as a replacement for Thomas Vermaelen who has been linked with a move away from The Emirates.
The 30 year old could also provide backup at right back, a position that he has played for long periods at Chelsea.
However, with the impending arrival of Kurt Zouma and Jose Mourinho apparently favouring the partnership of Gary Cahill and John Terry, the Serbian could see his game time limited at Stamford Bridge.
Vermaelen has hit a crossroads in his career. Despite being club captain, he has seen his appearances for Arsenal severely limited over the last season.
The successful partnership of Per Mertesacker and Laurent Koscielny has meant manager Arsene Wenger has been unwilling to change the back four to accommodate the Belgian.
At 28 years old, it is likely that Vermaelen will want regular game time, especially if he is to remain part of his national side’s plans.
Reports from The Daily Mail have already stated that he centre back would like to leave Arsenal while The Mirror has reported that he is a target for Louis van Gaal at Manchester United.
The Metro reports that Arsene Wenger is a fan of Ivanovic thanks to his imposing figure. He has huge amounts of experience in The Premier League, thanks to his 177 league appearances for Chelsea. Additionally he also has 71 appearances for the Serbian national team.
The same source believes that a fee of £7 million would be enough to secure his services.
Arsenal fans: One to get excited about?
silentstan
Jun 20, 2014 at 4:06 pm
fairy tale time again