Arsenal are expected to enter the race to sign French midfielder Steven N’Zonzi from Sevilla. The player has expressed his desire to leave the Spanish club in a bid to face fresh challenges in his career.
Having already lost Jack Wilshere for free, Arsenal are currently embroiled in a contract muddle with Aaron Ramsey. In such a situation, a move for N’Zonzi makes perfect sense.
N’Zonzi is currently under contract till 2020 at Seville, with a release clause of £35m. Having already played for Blackburn Rovers and Stoke City in the Premier League, the midfielder should adapt quickly at the Emirates Stadium.
Interestingly, N’Zonzi has played under Unai Emery before and the prospect of working with him again should excite the 29-year-old. And his presence in the middle of the park will improve Arsenal’s overall displays next season.
Let us scout the player and conclude as to why Arsenal should go for him.
N’Zonzi can play several roles in the midfield. He was predominantly deployed as a double-pivot with Ever Banega in a 4-2-3-1 formation last season. However, he thrives as a No.8 in a 4-3-3 formation.
The 29-year-old recorded an impeccable pass completion rate of 88% in the La Liga last season. He is tall, physically dominant and can be a threat from set-pieces as well. His physicality often helps him retain possession as well.
In Emery’s 4-3-3 formation, N’Zonzi could play as one of the central midfielders. He could potentially be flanked by Lucas Torreira, who is an Arsenal target, and Granit Xhaka in a three-man midfield. Given his stamina and dynamism, the player could thrive in a league as demanding as the English top-flight.
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Given the circumstances, Unai Emery must have a player N’Zonzi’s quality at his disposal. Having managed him before, the new Arsenal boss will be at an advantage.
With the Gunners in dire need of a top-class midfielder, the 29-year-old could fit in at the club perfectly.
