Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta has successfully implemented a new style of play at the Emirates Stadium this season.
Last summer's business in the transfer market, which saw Gabriel Jesus and Oleksandr Zinchenko both sign from Manchester City, worked wonders for Arteta's vision. Almost overnight in pre-season, the blueprint of Arteta's new style became apparent.
Zinchenko, an unorthodox full-back at Man City, was the perfect signing to play left-back for Arsenal this season.. Kieran Tierney's more traditional approach to defending and attacking wasn't the right fit, meaning Zinchenko went on to play 33 games across the year.
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Much has been said on the Ukrainian's defending ability, with howlers against Liverpool and Southampton demonstrating his fractured defensive skill set. That's why it's understandable that the Gunners have been linked with a new left-back option to compete with Zinchenko - especially given what happened when he wasn't available.
With Champions League football returning to north London, Arteta will be desperate to have quality options in deputy across his squad. And according to journalist Dean Jones, the north Londoners are considering a move for former Borussia Dortmund star Raphael Guerreiro.
The Portugal international confirmed he will be leaving the Bundesliga outside upon the expiry of his contract after seven years. His ability to play either at left-back or in central midfield makes him an attractive asset for many top clubs around Europe, including Arsenal.
"One other player I had mentioned to me recently is Raphael Guerreiro, who just announced his exit from Borussia Dortmund," he told GIVEMESPORT.
"I don’t think it progressed significantly since then and I know there are a couple of clubs on the continent further down the road with him, but he’s got that ability to play in midfield and to position himself in half-spaces that open up opportunities that Arteta finds so important, which is interesting.
"We have seen how Oleksandr Zinchenko has taken to life at Arsenal this season but with Kieran Tierney not in this same mould of full-back it is time for new possibilities to open up.
"It will be interesting to see what the club look to do at a time when they are also looking at right-back options in the market."
According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, the 29-year-old will assess his options before making a decision. Atletico Madrid and Bayern Munich are two teams said to be leading the race, with OGC Nice keen.
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