Arsenal have supposedly wrapped up their first signing of the summer, by reaching a pre-contractual agreement with a player who will be a free signing on the 30th June.
Schalke left back Sead Kolasinac has reportedly signed a pre contract with the Gunners which will see him swap Germany for England this summer on a free transfer. The Bosnian international has been in fine form for his current club this season and has impressed many with his efforts both in defence and attack. He forms a very similar approach to players like Monreal and Gibbs already, but could probably be easily utilised as a left wing back if a 343 is Arsenal’s intended formation for next season.
The transfer report, which is being made by SkySports, states that the player will officially join Arsenal on the 1st of July, where he will link up with his new teammates ahead of the Gunners’ pre-season tour. Kolasinac reportedly refused to sign a new contract with Schalke, several times throughout the season, despite their best efforts to negotiate. It seems that the player had his heart set on a move away to pastures new and although some will argue that Arsenal probably don’t offer too much more than Schalke competitively, there’s little doubt in which club has the better and more exciting team.
Based on current form, the 23 year old would most certainly replace Gibbs in the starting line-up in a left back position, but as for Monreal I’m not so sure. Monreal has made great strides during his Arsenal career and has become a very reliable defender with plenty of experience. I think given the Spaniard’s age and the possibility he will soon see his squad role limited at Arsenal, a signing like Kolasinac isn’t a bad deal for the Gunners. Making a free transfer cannot be scrutinised and so although a left back may not be the most pressing concern at the club, it’s still good to see that Wenger and co are already making moves ahead of what is going to be a very busy summer with plenty of change.
As a free transfer, you cannot get much more of a better deal financially, however whilst the report remains unconfirmed by Arsenal.com, it’s unlikely we’ll find much financial information surrounding a weekly wage, length of contract or signing on fee.
Will Kolasinac be a good signing?
By AH