ARSENAL will target a new left-back this summer, according to reports.
Gunners boss Mikel Arteta admitted last month that his side are ‘short’ in the position.
Tierney has established himself as first-choice left-backCredit: Reuters
Kieran Tierney has established himself as the undoubted first-choice left-back at Emirates Stadium.
But Arsenal would like to recruit a proper understudy.
The North Londoners allowed Sead Kolasinac to leave on loan at the start of January.
And another option in the position, Ainsley Maitland-Niles, was loaned to West Brom on Deadline Day.
According to The Athletic, Arsenal would like to sign a ‘high quality’ young player, with the idea that he can learn from Tierney, before potentially succeeding him.
They prefer this approach to signing a more experienced player that will expect more game time.
The Gunners had been linked with Patrick van Aanholt and Ryan Bertrand last month, with both players out of contract in the summer.
But they remained relaxed over the situation, despite Tierney’s current injury.
Ainsley Maitland-Niles made his West Brom debut at the weekendCredit: Getty Images – Getty
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Cedric Soares has filled in of late, but is not a long-term solution to the problem.
Bukayo Saka and Granit Xhaka are also believed to be able to fulfil the role if required.
Arteta, 38, instead decided to prioritise signing a new back-up goalkeeper, with Mat Ryan arriving from Brighton.
And the Spaniard was also able to add creativity, in the shape of Real Madrid loanee Martin Odegaard.
Cedric Soares has occupied the makeshift left-back slot of lateCredit: EPA
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Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
