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Arsenal ‘set sights’ on signing Girona star Miguel Gutierrez

By Ritayan Chatterjee on March 5, 2024

Arsenal have reportedly ‘set their sights’ on signing Girona star Miguel Gutierrez this summer, as per the Spanish outlet Fichajes.

After moving to the Emirates Stadium from Manchester City during the summer of 2022, Oleksandr Zinchenko has established himself as an integral part of Mikel Arteta’s starting eleven in recent times. However, the Ukrainian has struggled with injury problems and has showcased that he lacks qualities in defensive contributions.

Arteta has used Jakub Kiwior amid Zinchenko’s absence in recent times and Arsenal have looked terrific. They have been more solid defensively – which has made them look more confident and that has helped them going forward, scoring 15 goals in the last three league encounters.

So, Arsenal’s current impressive displays without Zinchenko in the backline might have made them think about signing a proper defender as the Ukrainian is a midfielder by traits but plays as the left-back for the Gunners.

According to the report by Fichajes, Arsenal have ‘set their sights’ on signing Gutierrez to reinforce their backline so they could make a concrete approach to acquire his service during the off-season.

Gutierrez to Arsenal

Gutierrez has a £30m release clause included in his current contract so Arsenal will have to spend a reasonable amount of money to lure the Spaniard to the Emirates Stadium.

However, Fichajes states that Manchester United are also keen on signing Gutierrez so the North London club are set to face tough competition from their rivals in getting any potential deal done for him. However, the report claims that Arsenal are currently more likely to be able to acquire Gutierrez’s service over Man Utd as they are set to qualify for the Champions League next season.

Gutierrez is comfortable in inverting into the midfield from the left-back position. He is technically sound, comfortable playing out from the back and also excellent going forward.

So, he could be a shrewd signing for Arsenal if they purchase him. However, he lacks qualities in the defensive contributions and in addition, there is a question mark whether he possesses the necessary physicality to play in the Premier League.

However, it is going to be interesting to see whether the Emirates club eventually opt to make a concrete approach to purchase Gutierrez this summer to reinforce their backline.