Arsenal preparing January raid for £53m star who has blown scouts away - report

Arsenal have been left impressed by Galatasaray defender Wilfried Singo after a scouting mission, according to Turkish outlet Sabah.

The Gunners made eight signings during the summer transfer window. They bolstered their backline with Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapie.

Despite this, they continue to be linked with defenders. Sabah cite that Singo is on the radar of Mikel Arteta’s side ahead of the New Year.

The Gunners had scouts in attendance to watch Singo during Galatasaray’s 3-0 Champions League victory over Ajax at the Johan Cruyff Arena.

The London giants were left impressed by his performance and will continue to monitor him in the next European games versus Union Saint-Gilloise and Monaco.

Sabah claim that the Gunners will be knocking on Galatasaray’s door to sign the versatile defender when the transfer window reopens.

The Turkish champions signed Singo from Monaco for €30.8 million (£27m) last summer. He has a €60m (£53m) buy-out clause in his deal.

Arsenal unlikely to pursue deal for Singo

The 24-year-old has played as a centre-back or right-back since his move to Galatasaray in August. He previously operated as a right wing-back during his time at Torino.

Singo has impressed with his strong aerial presence and has won almost two aerial duels per game. He has also caught the eye with his ball recoveries and tackling skills.

The Ivorian has the traits to suit the Premier League, but we simply don’t see the Gunners making an approach for his services unless there is a high-profile winter exit.

Arsenal are well-equipped in central defence. William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhaes are undisputed starters. Mosquera and Hincapie are the immediate backup options.

Arteta could also play Riccardo Calafiori, Jurrien Timber or Ben White in the role if he wishes.

Timber has become almost undroppable at right-back ahead of White over the past year. Mosquera has also made a solitary appearance in the role after his summer arrival.

There appears no need for any reinforcement. White could push for a new challenge in future amid his lack of regular minutes, but the club may not change things in January.

Hence, the Gunners are unlikely to make a winter move for Singo.

Stats from Transfermarkt.com & Sofascore.com

The post Arsenal preparing January raid for £53m star who has blown scouts away - report first appeared on ArsenalNews.co.uk.