Arsenal have made their first move in the January transfer window, completing the capture of Colorado Rapids defender Auston Trusty.
In an official statement, Arsenal have confirmed the acquisition of Auston Trusty. They have agreed a deal with Colorado Rapids over the permanent transfer of the emerging centre-back, although the player is set to remain in Colorado on loan until the end of the Premier League season before arriving at the Emirates.
Trusty becomes the first signing for Arsenal in this winter transfer window so far. The Gunners have faced a lot of criticism over their lack of activity in the market this month. To add to their woes, they have sanctioned the exit of multiple players, including Sead Kolasinac, Pablo Mari (loan), Ainsley Maitland-Niles (loan) and most recently, Calum Chambers, who joined Aston Villa permanently.
Arsenal could be set for one more blow before the transfer window slams shut, as Barcelona are reportedly closing in on Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang. The Gabonese international is currently in Catalonia to work out a deal, which could be a free transfer.
As for Trusty, he is quite an interesting signing for Arsenal as the defender from Pennsylvania has no experience in Europe. However, he has made a solid impression during his time at Colorado Rapids, notably starring in the MLS 2021 regular season, when his team finished at the top of the Western Conference.
Although Colorado Rapids lost to Portland Timbers in the playoffs, Trusty has raised a lot of eyebrows with his athleticism and imposing 1.90m figure that makes him an ideal fit for the physical nature of the Premier League. With almost 100 appearances in the MLS, Trusty doesn’t lack experience in professional football either, though he is yet to win a single cap for the United States national team.
Arsenal have stated that they intend to send Trusty out on loan once again in the summer in order to further his development. It could be a sensible move given his lack of experience in Europe. A loan to a Premier League club could be particularly useful as he looks to settle into the rigours of the English top-flight starting from next season.
Auston Trusty isn’t the only MLS player linked with a move to Arsenal this month either, as the Londoners have also been in contention to sign USMNT goalkeeper Matt Turner. However, with time running out, a move remains unlikely at least until the summer transfer window, when the Gunners may have to part ways with Bernd Leno.
