Arsenal have reportedly made an offer for Torino full back Bruno Peres, while rejecting an offer for Kieran Gibbs from local rivals West Ham United.
In a bid to strengthen their defensive ranks for the upcoming season, Arsenal have reportedly been on the lookout for a top quality fullback. The Gunners were rumoured to be interested in Wolfsburg’s Ricardo Rodriguez and Napoli’s Elseid Hysaj. But with both those moves seeming unlikely, Arsene Wenger’s side have looked to another Serie A defender in the form of the 26-year-old Bruno Peres.
The former Santos man has been in impressive form for Torino and over the course of the past two years has gone on to become an integral part of Il Toro’s first team squad. Toro News claim that Arsenal have made an offer in the region of €16 million for the right back, even lesser than Manchester City’s offer. The player is reportedly looking for a move away from the club, and a switch to Arsenal may suit him. The Brazilian is known for his superb dribbling and his ability to contribute in both halves of the pitch, which would make him an asset for almost any team. With 3 goals and 4 assists, Peres was one of the best defenders in the Serie A last season and is in the peak years of his career. But with Hector Bellerin in superb form, the Brazilian will likely face a tough battle for a starting spot and may find himself on the bench more often than he would like.
West Ham loan offer rejected
After Aaron Cresswell suffered an injury in Austria that would keep him out for at least four months, West Ham would likely be looking for an able replacement for the 26-year-old left back. The Liverpool born Cresswell had a superb season with the Hammers last season, making 47 appearances in all competitions, and he helped them to a 7th place finish in the league. In a bid to replace him, they had reportedly set their sights on Arsenal’s Kieran Gibbs and were hopeful of bringing him to cover for his compatriot. But their bid was rejected by the Gunners, according the Evening Standard.
Gibbs has seen his game time reduce considerably since the arrival of Nacho Monreal. However, it is unlikely that Wenger will allow the England international to leave the Emirates without being able to replace him properly. A homegrown English full back with the experience of Gibbs is extremely hard to find and he would serve as able back up when required.
However, this move may go through if Arsenal manage to sign Bruno Peres. Both at 26 years of age, it is yet to be seen whether Gibbs would push for a move away from Arsenal in search of more game time. After making over 200 appearances for the Gunners, it may be time for Gibbs to move on and look to establish himself as a first team player elsewhere. At 26, he is in the best years of his career, and should the right offer be tabled for him, Wenger might be forced to consider the move.
