There have already been many centre backs linked with a potential move to the Emirates in the January transfer window. One of the players that seems to be one of the favourites, at least according to a growing number of Arsenal transfer rumours, is the young Dutch defender Virgil van Dijk.
But the Celtic star’s manager Ronny Deila has suggested that it would be a waste of time for Arsene Wenger to try signing van Dijk for Arsenal over the next month or so. As Sky Sports have reported, the Celtic boss has claimed that the 23-year old, who signed for the Scottish champions from Groningen last summer, is more than happy where he is.
Deila also seems to think that staying at Celtic, for now at least, is the best thing for the big defender’s football career, as he continues to learn and gain valuable experience north of the border. As well as trying to send a message to the Arsenal manager, I think Deila is talking to his player as well and trying to get his centre back to see the benefits of waiting a little bit longer to make the next step.
He said, “He’s very happy. I have spoken with him and we are very happy to keep him as well. He’s a top player.
“For me, Virgil’s developing now and taking steps all the time which is very important. I am so happy to have him. He is enjoying his football, playing well. That’s positive. He is such an important player for us.
“He has learned a lot from August. It’s not the first time a player has been affected. Others have been through these things as well. Stefan Johansen was the same.
“But Virgil learned from what happened in the summer and he knows that if he’s good enough things will happen. This is the way he wants to do it.
“He’s worth a lot of money but I am very calm. In my opinion he is a very good player now but he can be a world-class player.
“The next thing for him, even though he’s just 23, is to become a leader in defence who controls things. He’s starting to do that but there are still a lot things to work on.”
I still think, however, that a good offer from the Gunners might be too good for van Dijk or Celtic to turn down, but I think Deila might be right and that the youngster may be better to stay at Celtin until the end of the season, while Wenger would bo better to sign a more proven and experienced player, preferably from the Premier League.
What do you think Gooners?