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Mixed martial arts Julian Brandt signing isn’t a necessity for Arsenal says former Arsenal defender
Despite the season still in full flow, transfer rumours continue to be a hot topic of conversation.
We caught up with former Arsenal and France defender Mikael Silvestre to discuss the rumours around Borussia Dortmund attacker Julian Brandt. Brandt has been rumoured to be top of Arsenal’s wishlist in the summer.
In this article:
- Arsenal planning ahead for summer transfer window
- Arsenal don’t need Julian Brandt despite fine form says Silvestre
- Gunners need to reinforce defensive midfield
Arsenal planning ahead for summer transfer window
Arsenal are looking to conclude what has been a wonderful season by winning their first league title since 2003. Despite a fine season for Mikel Arteta and his men, they will surely be seeking to add reinforcements to an already exciting, attacking side.
According to Bild, Arsenal are keen to sign Borussia Dortmund playmaker this summer who would likely be competing with the likes of Martin Odegaard, Emile Smith-Rowe and Fabio Vieira for a berth in the starting line up.
Arsenal don’t need Julian Brandt despite fine form says Silvestre
Brandt recently signed a two-year contract extension with the Bundesliga giants which tie him to the club until 30 June 2026. Brandt has scored nine goals and has five assists to his name across all competitions this season. Yet his name continues to be linked with the Gunners.
However, Silvestre doesn’t believe that this is a position that Arsenal need to strengthen due to the likes of Smith-Rowe and Viera waiting in the wings for their opportunity.
“I don’t think it’s a necessity for Arsenal to look for a player like Julian Brandt.”
“You’ve got players at Arsenal already doing that job really well. You’ve got Emile Smith-Rowe in the reserves as well.”
“Unless they want to play with two number 10s, but yeah I don’t think he’s a priority for next season.”
Gunners need to reinforce defensive midfield
While Silvestre believes that reinforcements in the creative department are not necessary, he has expressed concerns about the team’s depth in defensive midfield positions.
With guaranteed Champions League football for next season and the team competing in four competitions, additional players will be crucial to their survival. Silvestre has doubts about the readiness of Albert Sambi Lokonga and considers adding players to the central defensive midfield areas as vitally important.
“In midfield, to cover Partey and Xhaka, because Elneny got injured. I think those two need competition.”
“They will be playing in the Champions League next season so I think they need someone there. That would be the priority.”
“Lokonga, I’m not sure he’s ready. Fabio Vieira, I don’t think he’s also pushing hard enough.”
“From one season to another, things change and players step up. Also it was Vieira’s first season for Arsenal, first in the Premier League. So maybe they’ll come back strong and do the job for Mikel in midfield.”
