Exclusive: “Always been on Arsenal’s list” – AFC transfer targets to replace injured Timber, according to an expert.
According to Fabrizio Romano’s exclusive column for CaughtOffside, Arsenal will decide shortly whether or not to re-enter the market for a defensive signing to replace the injured Jurrien Timber.
The Gunners have been dealt a blow with the news that summer signing Timber has suffered a serious injury that will keep him out for the rest of the season.
It seems Simakan is someone who’s always been on the north London giants’ radar, but Romano insists they haven’t re-opened discussions over the RB Leipzig defender at this stage.
Cancelo, meanwhile, looks to be in advanced talks over leaving Manchester City for Barcelona instead, and it makes sense that the treble winners would rather sell the Portugal international abroad than to one of their nearest title rivals.
“As previously reported, Arsenal will explore the market for defenders after the serious and lengthy injury to Jurrien Timber. They will decide how to act soon, despite plenty of speculation emerging already about potential targets,” Romano said.
“RB Leipzig defender Mohamed Simakan has always been on Arsenal’s list, he was plan B earlier this summer in case Timber didn’t end up joining. At the moment, however, Arsenal have not reactivated contacts to sign him, let’s see if that happens or not.
“Cancelo has been mentioned again as well, but as stated above, he is in advanced talks over joining Barcelona.”
