Arsene Wenger is reportedly looking to bring Mainz defender Abdou Diallo over to Arsenal in the January transfer window to beef up his defensive options.
The shift to a three-man backline seems to be an experiment that has gone well so far. And with Arsene Wenger looking to continue using the formation, the Frenchman is seeking additions to his options for the said position come January. One of the targets in mind is Mainz defender Abdou Diallo, if a report from Goal is to be believed.
Abdou Diallo is a product of the AS Monaco academy setup – one which is making huge waves in the footballing scene with several promising graduates in recent times. Diallo though, is a talent who has come to the fore after sealing a summer move to Mainz.
While Mainz lay precariously close to the bottom, having shipped in 28 goals in their 17 Bundesliga games so far, Diallo has been a spark at the back for the German outfit. His contribution of 2 goals in the 15 appearances also show a knack of coming in handy at the other end as well.
We were slightly confused as to why Abdou Diallo was allowed to leave Monaco, even more so given their limited options at centre-back.
Diallo has been one of Mainz’s best: a confident front-foot defender, pretty good in possession, underpinned by a slick turn of pace. pic.twitter.com/AJAc0oW9PP
— Scouted Football (@ScoutedFtbl) December 18, 2017
Arsenal do have six options available to them in central defence. But, Calum Chambers and Rob Holding have failed to impress much and lock down a place for themselves at the back. With Per Mertesacker’s form also dwindling in the recent times, the injury to Shkodran Mustafi has really brought to fore a need for addition in the options at centre-back.
At 21, Diallo would be a long-term addition at the club. Also, given that Mainz are struggling for form, the Frenchman could be interested in a move, especially given the chance to work under a fellow compatriot as coveted as Arsene Wenger.
Arsenal have already had their scouts monitor the player’s performances at Mainz and seem impressed with his potential. One of the main points of contention will be Mainz’s willingness to let go of a first-team regular, with the club staring at a relegation scrap.
Alternatively, Mainz could ask for a considerable sum of money in exchange for Diallo, which would not only net the club some profit in the transfer but also enable them to reinforce the other areas and aid their bid for survival in Bundesliga.
Arsenal have looked towards the Bundesliga for recruitments in recent times, with Granit Xhaka and Sead Kolasinac both established members of the first-team squad now. And, given the circumstances, do not be surprised if Diallo does end up arriving at the Emirates in January.
