It’s probably one of the most awaited transfer windows in recent history for Gooners as it seems possible that the Arsenal management can set things right. Almost five months in the Gunners seem to be loathing the lack of depth in defense and the manager Arsène Wenger had earlier promised that he’ll look to strengthen the defense in the winter transfer window. And now, as per latest rumours, this seems quite possible.
Arsenal seem to be scouting Schalke’s homegrown German defender Benedikt Höwedes. The £15m defender is currently the German Bundesliga team’s captain and primarily plays at the heart of the defensive line. However, he is a true defensive all-rounder who is capable of fulfilling any role along the back line. You wouldn’t put it beyond Arsène Wenger to try and get such a versatile player which will only increase the defensive depth and yet bring some experience as well, which can only help better the team’s defensive performance and hopefully reduce the naivety that has been displayed recently.
He stands 6 feet 2 inches tall and is 26-years-old so one might argue that he’s just about in his prime. He’s raked in 31 appearances for his country so far and scored two goals. With the aging Per Mertesacker seemingly out of form for most part of the season thus far, could Höwedes be the answer to Arsenal’s defensive frailty? Some might argue that his £15m price tag is quite hefty and Arsenal are not usually known for paying so much for their targets but in the past two seasons Arsène Wenger has “splashed the cash” for the man he wants. Höwedes is contracted to Schalke till 2017 which is a big factor on his price tag. Whether the clubs and the player himself will do business, only time can tell.