Arsenal might join the race for Benjamin Pavard late in this window to replace Jurrien Timber, with Manchester United the front-runners for the Frenchman.
Fabrizio Romano thinks Arsenal could ponder a late move for Benjamin Pavard in this window. The 27-year-old Manchester United target is keen to leave Bayern Munich with a year left on his contract, as Mikel Arteta could view the Bayern Munich star as a replacement for Jurrien Timber.
The Jurrien Timber injury may change Arsenal’s plans in the transfer window at this stage when it looked like Mikel Arteta had a complete squad. The Dutchman suffered an ACL injury tear Nottingham Forest, which will keep him out for most parts of the season.
His absence could force Arteta to seek a replacement with Ivan Fresneda back on their radar. The Arsenal boss also has many other players on his shortlist, including Manchester City paid Joao Cancelo and Aymeric Laporte.
With the duo deemed unattainable at this stage, Arsenal are exploring other names, including Southampton’s Kyle Walker-Peters and now Benjamin Pavard of Bayern Munich. The idea of bringing the latter will focus on his experience in the game and what he brings to the squad. Walker-Peters also has similar attributes, but the Frenchman can also play centrally.
Benjamin Pavard, one to watch as he’s prepared to leave Bayern now 🚨🔴
Inter have Pavard on top of the list — proposal expected soon to open talks.
Man United deal stalling due to Maguire situation.
…could become option for Arsenal to replace Timber — no decision yet. pic.twitter.com/dI2sD19fJi
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) August 17, 2023
Manchester United are the current front-runners for Pavard, with the 27-year-old also keen on the move. With a year left on his deal, Bayern Munich reportedly want €40 million from his sale, which may seem like a considerable asking price.
Arsenal have not made any approaches for the 27-year-old Manchester United target, as Fabrizio Romano insists the Gunners might enter the chase. It remains a possibility in light of Timber’s injury, with Pavard’s experience likely to help Arteta in his quest.
Manchester United were accelerating their pursuit until the Harry Maguire saga unfolded. They had initially wanted to sell the England international to fund a move for the 27-year-old Frenchman. But with the 30-year-old now staying puts, there are some doubts.
Arsenal may look at other targets, like Fresneda, who appears to have a cheaper price tag than the experienced Pavard. Hence, the Gunners may keep him on their shortlist and maybe consider a move as a last resort of sorts.
