Arsenal could bring in the Man City defender

19 July 2023 - 3:08 am

In a recent interview with Give Me Sport, transfer insider Dean Jones claimed Arsenal could make a move for Manchester City defender João Cancelo this summer. Jones said,

“The full-back situation is interesting because Cancelo is still expected to leave and with all the uncertainty around Kyle Walker.

“But we also know that Guardiola has given up on the model that Cancelo once grew up in and seems content with him not staying.

“The big question is, where will he go? If it’s cheap enough or on loan, Barcelona are ready, so if something happens soon, it might be. Arsenal have been touted and the case is currently open. It’s quiet — but that may not always be the case.

“My message is that if Cancelo remains at the team later in the transfer window, Arsenal will likely look to do a deal. It’s not completely forgotten, it’s just not a major priority. More It’s a luxury.”

Cancelo’s impressive loan spell at the Allianz Arena

Cancelo enjoyed a decent loan spell at Bayern Munich last season, where he made some solid displays on the right side of the Bayern defense. The 29-year-old played 21 games for the Bavarian club last season, scoring one goal and providing six assists in all competitions.

The Barreiro-born genius averaged 1.5 tackles, 1.0 interceptions, 1.0 clearances, 0.8 shots, 0.9 key passes and 2.3 dribbles per 90 minutes in the Bundesliga. In Germany’s top flight, he has a pass success rate of 85.1% (data from whoscored), and he even distributes relatively good possession on the right wing.

Should Arsenal boss Arteta accept cancellation?

Cancelo is a tough full-back who can spot danger quickly and make timely tackles for his team when he plays confidently on the pitch. The Portugal international has the vision to create some promising chances for his team-mates from the right flank. He’s also a good ballhandler.

Cancelo will undoubtedly improve the quality of Arsenal’s defense. He’s good enough to earn a regular starting spot in Mikel Arteta’s starting XI.

Cancelo has the winning mentality and could help the Gunners challenge for some big honors in the near future. Therefore, it would be a wise choice for Arteta to sign him this summer.