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Arsenal keeping tabs on Bayer Leverkusen star Tapsoba
Arsenal are reportedly keeping a close eye on the development of Bayer Leverkusen defender Edmond Tapsoba ahead of a potential summer move, as per the transfer expert Fabrizio Romano.
The 24-year-old joined the Bundesliga side back in 2020 from Vitoria SC in a £15m deal. Upon moving to the Bayer Arena, the African has established himself as a key first-team member for Leverkusen over the last few years.
Tapsoba has enjoyed a solid campaign in the German top-flight this term, scoring a solitary goal and keeping seven clean-sheets in 32 league appearances.
Writing on Twitter, Romano has reported that after displaying eye-catching performances for Xavi Alonso’s side this season, Tapsoba has started to attract a lot of attention from several Premier League clubs ahead of the summer window with Arsenal among those to have registered their interest.
The journalist further claims that the Gunners have been monitoring the defender’s progress intensively in recent games so, Mikel Arteta’s side could make a concrete approach to sign him during the off-season.
Tapsoba to Arsenal
However, Romano says that purchasing Tapsoba won’t be straightforward for Arsenal as arch-rival Tottenham Hotspur are also eyeing a swoop for him. In addition, the Italian states that Leverkusen don’t want to let their star man leave this summer unless the defender’s potential suitors such as Arsenal or Tottenham submit a lucrative offer.
Romano wrote:
“Premier League clubs are now tracking Edmond Tapsoba ahead of the summer transfer window — he’s one of the CBs to keep an eye on. Arsenal and Tottenham scouts have monitored Tapsoba in recent games but the race is absolutely open — Bayer will only sell for huge bid.”
The 24-year-old – valued at around £26m by Transfermarkt – still has more than three years left in his current contract. So, Leverkusen are in a strong position to demand a big fee if they are forced to cash-in this summer.
After Arsenal’s recent downfall following William Saliba’s injury absence this term, it has been suggested that Mikel Arteta has decided to sign a new centre-back this summer to support the Frenchman next season. The North London club have been linked with a few options in recent times with Tapsoba now emerging as a serious target.
The African, standing at 6ft 3in tall, is comfortable playing out from the back, good in the air, is excellent in defensive contributions and also can read the game extremely well.
The youngster has showcased glimpses of his talent in the German Bundesliga over the last few years. So, he would be a shrewd acquisition for Arsenal if they manage to secure his signature this summer.
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