Arsenal eyeing 11 possible replacements for Ben White as Aaron Wan-Bissaka move emerges
Arsenal’s search for a replacement for Ben White is intensifying, with a move for West Ham United star Aaron Wan-Bissaka now possible.
White made just 12 Premier League appearances for the Gunners last season, due to a string of injuries, and his time at the Emirates Stadium could end this summer.
Mikel Arteta may find it difficult to replace the Englishman, given that he is a versatile option, having played at center back and right back since joining Brighton back in 2021.
However, Wan-Bissaka, who has more experience in England, with 233 Premier League appearances, has now emerged as a possible replacement, having previously received high praise from Tottenham Hotspur’s James Maddison.
Maddison says: “AWB is insanely good at defending one-v-one. He’s probably the best in the world bar none. A lot of juniors run out of strategy when they play against him head-on.”
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Football FanCast verdict |
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Honesty |
Arsenal have struggled with injuries in recent times, with Jurrien Timber, William Saliba, Cristhian Mosquera and Gabriel all missing time. As such, they will undoubtedly need to sign a new right-back if White leaves. |
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Finance |
West Ham are looking at just £15m – £20m following their relegation from the Premier League, meaning the DR Congo international could be an affordable addition to Arteta’s squad. |
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Understanding |
Unlike White, the 28-year-old is not a central defender, having played on the right most of his career so far. However, the defender’s strong defensive qualities mean he can still be a strong player, with no West Ham player averaging more than 90 passes (1.7) in the Premier League last season. |
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Impact |
With the former Manchester United man’s lack of experience at the highest level, playing just 15 Champions League games, he could be considered a Timber supporter. However, if the Gunners are to challenge for all four trophies next season, Arteta will need to turn around, and he may still have a key role to play. |
Arsenal are putting together an 11-point list to replace White
According to a TEAMtalk report, Arsenal have put together a list of 11 players who could replace White, namely Ezri Konsa, Jules Kounde, Raúl Asensio, Oscar Mingueza, Lutsharel Geertruida, Wesley, Givairo Read, Ivan Fresneda, Tino Livramento, Vanderson and Wan-Bissaka.
The Gunners are strongly considering a shock move for the London-born defender, and there are encouraging signs that a deal is possible, with West Ham expected to agree to a move after being relegated.
What Bukayo Saka said about World Cup star Aaron Wan-Bissaka
DR Congo can be proud of their World Cup run, Collecting a point against Portugal is nothing to be sniffed at, and they gave England a real scare in the round of 32, before Harry Kane’s double.
Wan-Bissaka started all four of the African team’s games, averaging 10.1 defensive tackles in 90, which was more than any other DR Congo player.
Bukayo Saka may not have been surprised by the quality of the right back, who has said: “Defensively, Wan-Bissaka. It was rare to see him get beaten, so I said him. When I played with him, I didn’t find myself in those situations, but I felt what he wanted to do as I’ve obviously seen him play before. It’s about not falling into the trap he sets for you.”
With that in mind, the DR Congo star could be a strong option for Arsenal as they look to compete in all areas again next season.
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