Arsenal are reportedly interested in signing former Barcelona utility man Aleix Vidal on a free transfer following the expiration of his Sevilla contract.
According to Fichajes, Arsenal are eyeing a move for Aleix Vidal, who is available on a free transfer after being released by Sevilla. The Spanish utility man’s contract expired with the Andalusian club and has plenty of experience playing in La Liga, especially with Barcelona.
Once touted as Dani Alves’ potential replacement at Barcelona, Aleix Vidal soon realised the harsh reality of succeeding the Brazilian. Having failed to make any real impact at the Camp Nou, Vidal was used much as a utility player during his three seasons, making only 51 appearances in all competitions and scoring four times.
Vidal subsequently returned to Sevilla in a deal costing under £9 million, where he has played 87 games in all competitions across two stints. He also spent the 2019/20 season on loan at Deportivo Alaves, and upon his contract expiration, was released by Sevilla. Arsenal seem to be interested in a Bosman transfer for the Spaniard.
The Gunners are in the market to strengthen their squad for the upcoming season. Mikel Arteta is looking for a right-back but has Calum Chambers and Cedric Soares in his ranks. Long serving right-back Hector Bellerin could depart, with Inter Milan considering a move.
Vidal might not replace Bellerin but could ne looked at more like a utility player Arteta seeks to add depth to his squad. The former Barcelona and Sevilla man can play as a full-back, a wide midfielder or even on the wings if needed. His versatility is the biggest factor why the Gunners are even considering a move.
In wide attacking positions, Arsenal have plenty of options with characters such as Nicolas Pepe and Bukayo Saka. However, Reiss Nelson and Ainsley Maitland-Niles are widely expected to leave the club in this window, and Arteta might look at Vidal as their potential replacement in the squad.
On the other flank, Arsenal have already secured Nuno Tavares from Benfica earlier in the window. Signing Vidal could also allow Arteta to move players like Cedric, although the Portuguese defender’s form in pre-season suggests the manager could use him more next season.
Vidal could be a good addition to this Arsenal side, who will be looking to close the gap to the top four this season. The Spanish utility player could also fill the gaps some of the departing players might leave behind. Signing such a player will give the manager options needed to close out games, especially with the Spaniard’s experience.
