Now that the departure of Hector Bellerin has finally been confirmed this morning, and the news that Ainsley Maitland-Niles is desperate to leave, one must assume that the Gunners are now in the hunt to grab another right-back before tonight’s deadline.
We have been linked with many possible right-backs like Max Aarons and Kieran Trippier, but according to David Ornstein, we are going to go for the Bologna right back Takehiro Tomiyasu, who has the added advantage of being able to play as centre-back as well.
Six weeks ago, The Athletic reported that Tottenham were on the verge of signing Tomiyasu in a £15million deal, but it is looking like Spurs have decided to go with Emerson Royal instead, but that is a good indication of the price Arsenal can expect to pay.
At 22 years of age, Tomiyasu also perfectly fits the age profile that Arteta has decided on for his rebuilding plan for the Gunners.
He is 6ft 2in tall, which will be handy for defending set-pieces, and is obviously very highly thought of. He has played for his country at every level from schoolboy upwards and has already made 23 appearances for the Japan senior team despite his tender years.
He could be a real bargain if he can adapt quickly to the Premier League…