Sergio Reguilon (L) in action against Barcelona (Getty Images)
According to Spanish publication ABC Sevilla (h/t Daily Star), Arsenal are eyeing Real Madrid left-back Sergio Reguilon.
A Real Madrid academy graduate, the 23-year-old defender is currently on a season-long loan with rivals Sevilla. Having made his La Liga debut for Madrid last season, Reguilon has established himself as one of the key players at Sevilla this season.
The young full-back has featured in 22 of their overall 27 league games and has played a major role in helping them to an impressive third place in the table. He is a part of the Sevilla backline that has conceded just 29 goals this term.
Reguilon is considered as a potential replacement for Gunners teenager Bukayo Saka, who has attracted interest from clubs such as Borussia Dortmund.
18-year-old Saka has been a revelation for Arsenal this season after he established himself as a left-back regular under new boss Mikel Arteta. Primarily a winger, Saka was pushed into the left-back role due to injuries to main man Kieran Tierney and Sead Kolasinac and he has impressed heavily.
However, his swift rise into one of the key players for Arsenal this term has now attracted the likes of clubs such as Dortmund. Saka has enjoyed a breakthrough campaign, making 29 appearances, netting three goals and giving nine assists in total for the North London side.
With the teenager quickly emerging as one of Arsenal’s key players at such a short duration, it’s not a surprise that clubs such as Dortmund have come knocking. Though Arsenal are unlikely to entertain any offers for the youngster, Saka is yet to sign a new contract, with his current deal set to expire in 2021.
Saka’s uncertain future and injury concerns to Tierney and Kolasinac means Arsenal should look for new options at left-back, making Reguilon a viable option. Despite excelling at the back, Saka is more of a left-winger than a left-back. Arsenal’s dearth of players at left-back had seen the youngster being converted into that role this term.
Also, Saka is more of an attacking-minded player unlike Reguilon, who has helped Sevilla to ten clean sheets this season. Meanwhile, Arsenal have endured a difficult spell this season, lying ninth in the league. They have conceded 36 goals from 29 league games.
Considering their struggles at the back, they need a more experienced and defensive-minded player in their squad at the moment. Thus, Reguilon would be a good signing for the Gunners if they wish to strengthen their defence next season.
In Saka, Arsenal seemed to have found a new left-back this season. However, he is still young and has to work more on the defensive side of his game.
That said, it would be safe for the Gunners to have somebody in the mould of Reguilon. A proven customer, he can also give competition to main man Tierney when he returns from his injury.
