Arsenal are interested in Nantes centre-back Nathan Zeze next summer, as the 19-year-old could potentially replace Jakub Kiwior.
According to TBR, Arsenal have set sights on Nantes’ 19-year-old centre-back Nathan Zeze ahead of next summer. The Gunners could look into the market for further defensive reinforcements as the Ligue 1 defender is seen as a replacement for Jakub Kiwior next summer.
Jakub Kiwior was the obvious casualty in the aftermath of Riccardo Calafiori’s arrival. While the Polish centre-back has seen reduced game time, he could still be a valuable asset in terms of squad depth and for cup games as the Gunners embark on a long season.
Kiwior has obvious qualities that Mikel Arteta likes. The Spaniard refused to sanction a late sale of the Polish defender, thus keeping him part of the squad. He started the most recent cup game against Bolton and was an essential substitute during the 2-2 draw at the Etihad against Manchester City earlier.
Beyond a squad player, Kiwior does not have a big future ahead with the club, with many expecting the Polish star to depart as early as January. However, Arteta may not want a sudden mid-season change with his squad, meaning Kiwior could stay put, although a summer exit seems more than likely.
Should he leave, Arsenal does have a few names they are interested in, with Nantes teenager Nathan Zeze a key target. The 19-year-old Ligue 1 defender has become a key man at the French side following some important games played during the previous campaign.
Where does Nathan Zeze fit in at Arsenal?
Zeze is yet another left-footer that Arteta might like, with the defender also attracting West Ham’s interest in the summer. The 19-year-old Ligue 1 defender could be seen as a replacement for Kiwior and will have to assume a squad role. The Gunners also have Calafiori in their ranks, but the Italian is seen more for that left-back role than to play centrally.
Meanwhile, Zeze, should he come in, will have to stay content with a bench role for most parts, although, with time, he could build towards a successful career here. For now, nothing has been decided about his move to north London, although he could be a big target if Kiwior leaves next summer.
