Rob Holding is yet expected to leave Arsenal before the transfer deadline, although there is not a lot of interest in the 27-year-old outcast.
According to Fabrizio Romano, Rob Holding will be expected to leave Arsenal before the transfer deadline. The 27-year-old defender is yet to attract considerable interest, although some clubs could likely come in late or on deadline day for the centre-back.
Rob Holding’s future could become a subject of scrutiny as we approach the transfer deadline day. The centre-back has played regularly at Arsenal but not as a pure first-choice starter. Last season, the injury to William Saliba ensured the 27-year-old Arsenal outcast became a part of the back four, but things have changed.
Mikel Arteta has his first-choice players fit and ready to play, leaving Holding in the background and out of the matchday squads for the first three games. The manager had indicated the same with Kieran Tierney, who has since joined Real Sociedad on loan.
Unless there is a massive injury crisis, Holding may not play again for Arsenal. Hence, a move away would make sense for the 27-year-old entering his prime. Besiktas held an interest in the centre-back, but things have not moved at the right pace.
Rob Holding, still expected to leave Arsenal in the final days of the transfer window. There are discussions now ongoing to make it happen 🔴⚪️ #AFC
Understand there are also Spanish clubs asking for conditions of Holding deal. pic.twitter.com/GC37IkBX7I
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) August 28, 2023
Holding might open the doors for a move abroad, and Turkey could become an attractive destination. As per Fabrizio Romano, some Spanish sides are also vying for the defender, although the identities of those are yet to become more apparent.
Holding’s value is no more than £5-6 million. But considering the experience he brings, Arsenal could demand slightly more, around £10 million. It’s still a good deal for many clubs who play a low block in defence, and the 27-year-old could add much value to such teams.
For now, he remains part of the outcast group of Nuno Tavares, who also had interest from clubs but nothing concrete yet. There are other stars like Nicolas Pepe, Cedric Soares and Albert Sambi Lokonga, all of whom Arsenal are willing to sell.
Selling Holding for the right price will even make Arsenal some profit on their meagre outlay many years ago. However, the big question will revolve around who will sign the 27-year-old centre-back now, especially with the window shrinking fast.
