Arsenal and Manchester United are now among the main clubs looking to sign an “exciting” French defender, also capable of playing in midfield.
Gunners look to strengthen their defensive options
The Gunners appear to be in a strong position to finally end their long wait for a title, currently top of the Premier League table, and much of their success can be attributed to their hugely impressive defensive record at the start of the campaign.
Mikel Arteta’s side have conceded just three goals in their opening seven matches, which is the fewest of any team in the top flight, with William Saliba and Gabriel continuing their strong partnership at the heart of defence.
The north Londoners also strengthened their options at the back in the summer transfer window, signing Cristhian Mosquera from Valencia, and the 21-year-old has featured fairly regularly so far this season, featuring eight times in all competitions.
Given that Arteta is already well equipped in defense, it may come as a surprise to learn that Arsenal have now set their sights on another centre-back, who is attracting interest from some of Europe’s top clubs.
That’s according to a report from Caught Offside, which reveals that the Gunners are now among the main clubs tracking FC Nantes defender Tylel Tati, alongside Premier League rivals Manchester United, with both clubs sending scouts to monitor him in action.
There could be serious competition for Tati’s signature, however, with Tottenham Hotspur, Liverpool and Aston Villa also cited as potential suitors, while Barcelona, RB Leipzig and Bayer Leverkusen headline the foreign interest.
Widespread interest in the 17-year-old could stem from his ability to play in multiple positions, with the report stating that he is capable of playing at left back, while also possessing the ability to play in defensive midfield.
‘Exciting’ Tati could be fantastic long-term addition for Arsenal
Recruiter Jacek Kulig named the youngster among the most “exciting” French U21 centre-backs, and it’s understandable why, given he has already managed to establish himself as a regular in Nantes’ first team.
The starlet has made six Ligue 1 appearances so far this season, which is an impressive feat considering he only turned 17 earlier this year, highlighting that the Nantes ace could be ready to make the move to the Premier League before too long.
Arguably the Frenchman’s toughest test yet came on his debut against Paris Saint-Germain, but manager Luis Castro praised him after the match, despite Nantes losing 1-0, saying: “He had a very good match, he is calm, focused, and at 17 years old, that’s not bad”
With Saliba, Gabriel, Mosquera and Piero Hincapie in the ranks, there is no pressing need to bring in a new centre-back, but Tati could be a fantastic long-term addition, and his versatility is an added bonus.
