Premier League leaders Arsenal will battle it out with Chelsea for the services of 25-year-old right-back Ridle Baku.
According to Christian Falk via CaughtOffside, Arsenal and Chelsea are keen on acquiring the services of Ridle Baku. The 25-year-old has been performing on a consistent basis of late and his heroics haven’t gone unnoticed. Top clubs from across Europe are interested in having him in their ranks.
Both the Premier League clubs have already made contact with the player’s representatives. They are both desperate for a new right-back in the summer. And, will treat the 25-year-old as a priority option heading into the summer transfer window.
Christian Falk said: “Ridle Baku of Wolfsburg got the call from Arsenal. The Gunners are interested in the German player who can play right-back and right-wing,”
“But they’re not alone in their interest, as Chelsea made a call themselves during the winter window. Villarreal also want to make a bid this summer.”
Baku started off at the youth academy of FSV Mainz 05. He came through the ranks at the club and became an important part of their squad before making a move to VfL Wolfsburg in October 2020. The 25-year-old has since gone from strength to strength.
The German international has featured in 29 matches for his club in the ongoing season and has contributed towards six goals. His performances have attracted the attention of multiple clubs across Europe. While his contract at the German club runs until the summer of 2025, he is expected to be on the move in the summer given the amount of interest.
Arsenal have done a great job so far this season, they are leading the Premier League title race. But, Mikel Arteta has identified a few areas that need strengthening as they prepare to return to the Champions League next season.
The Spanish manager wants a new right-back, preferably an attacking one. And, Baku fits the bill perfectly as he has the ability to play both as a right-back and a right-winger. His arrival will make them a more attacking team and will also help the cause of Bukayo Saka who would love to play alongside him.
Meanwhile, the Gunners will have competition from the Blues who are also keen on having the 25-year-old. The Blues have had a lot of trouble on the right side of the defence due to frequent injuries to Reece James. And, they only have one real backup in Cesar Azpilicueta who is in the twilight of his career.
As a result, they want to sign Baku. However, it won’t be that easy a task. They will have to offload a few players at first to balance the books and then push for the Bundesliga defender. With two top English clubs involved, it will be interesting to see who comes out on top.
