In an attempt to shore up their leaky defence Arsenal have shown interest in Bayern Munich defender Jerome Boateng. It has been reported that the German club are happy to comply with the defender’s wish to leave the club this month, making the former World Cup winner available for around £12 million.
However, there’s been some dispute over the fee that would have to be paid by Arsenal. BILD reporter Christian Falk has reported there would be no fee due at all – the Gunners would need only pay the players salary.
It would be an interesting signing for Arsenal, a man who could potentially bring a level of leadership and control to the dressing room, something the team are currently lacking. The issue is when you take a closer look at what Boateng would be able to actually contribute for the Gunners on the pitch. At 31 years old he has struggled to consistently make his way into the starting lineup at the Allianz Arena this season and it can be argued that he has been on the decline for the past few seasons.
It was initially reported that Arsenal wouldn’t be looking to spend any money in January following their £150 million shopping spree in the summer, however the injury to Callum Chambers may force the club into action, needing a player to come in and plug the gap in their squad.
Would Boateng be a good signing for Arsenal? It feels as though deploying him alongside David Luiz and Socrates in a back three is just asking for trouble at this stage. All three of the defenders are slightly past their prime and seem to be headed downhill, neither exactly have a turn of pace about them and have been known for making basic mistakes over the course of the past few seasons.
What do we think? Would Boateng be a worthwhile signing for the club?
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