Arsenal are reportedly interested in signing Crystal Palace centre-back Scott Dann to solve their defensive crisis.
The Daily Star have claimed that Arsenal have turned their attention to Crystal Palace centre-back Scott Dann in search of a replacement for the injured Per Mertesacker. The report states that Arsenal would have to compete with Everton, who are also interested in a move for the 29-year-old after being rejected by Swansea in their pursuit of Ashley Williams.
Arsene Wenger was reported to be on the lookout for a centre-half and after seeing his bid for Germany international Shkodran Mustafi turned down by Valencia, the Frenchman has set his sights on a player nearer to home.
Scott Dann has been ever-present for the Eagles since joining the club from Blackburn Rovers in 2014. The centre-back has appeared in 69 of 76 Premier League games for Crystal Palace over the last two seasons and his return of five goals last term is more than decent considering the player’s role in the squad (stats via whoscored).
The 29-year-old is a no-nonsense defender and is lauded for his concentration on the pitch. The centre-back makes up for his weakness in tackling with his ability to block shots and passes, but Arsene Wenger might just have a problem with the player’s lack of ability in the passing department.
The Frenchman, though, can rely on the defender to clear the ball away from any danger and provide some much-needed leadership and steel in the absence of Per Mertesacker.
A move for Scott Dann would require serious negotiation, assuming Crystal Palace are interested in a deal. That does not seem likely given manager Alan Pardew announced the 29-year-old as the club’s new captain ahead of this season (via ESPN).
The Frenchman had earlier admitted that he understands the frustration of the Gooners regarding the club’s failings in the transfer market and could now go all out in order to convince the fans that Arsenal are serious about mounting a title challenge this season.
