Arsenal have already signed one Swiss star this summer in Granit Xhaka, but are apparently looking to sign his international teammate Ricardo Rodriguez too, as reported by German publication Kicker (via the Mirror).
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The report suggests the left-back has a £19m release clause, which Arsene Wenger is planning to activate in order to bring him to the Emirates for the 2016/17 campaign.
While a left-back is far from a priority this summer, it would be excellent to see Rodriguez arrive. The 23-year-old is one of the brightest young full-backs around, and while Nacho Monreal has been excellent this season, the same can’t be said for Kieran Gibbs.
The English left-back hasn’t really improved during his time at Arsenal, and certainly hasn’t realised the potential he showed as a youngster. The fact that he’s also regularly sidelined with injury suggests he’s really not up to the standard required at Arsenal, and it would be fantastic to see him replaced by Rodriguez.
The report also says that he’s determined to force a move away from VfL Wolfsburg this summer, and would jump at the chance to make a switch to north London. Being able to join his Swiss teammate Granit Xhaka at the club would also probably be a huge boost, so if Wenger wants him then there really doesn’t seem to be anything standing in our way.
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One issue is that Wenger doesn’t seem keen to make too many signings this summer, as he doesn’t like upsetting the balance that he’s worked so hard to get at Arsenal. If we do sign a left-back – arguably not as much of a priority as a striker, a centre-back, a right-back, or a right-winger – then that may prevent Wenger from bringing in the players we really need. A quality striker has to be our top priority, but hopefully Wenger doesn’t limit himself too much with the number of players he’s willing to sign.
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