There is no doubt that Arsenal need to shore up their defensive options this summer, with a real concern setting in a centre back. However Arsenal are set to let go of one centre back in the coming days, with youngster Isaac Hayden set to sign for Championship side Newcastle United.
Arsenal are keen to sign another centre back this summer, with concerns about Per Mertesacker’s physical capabilities, as well as the fact that Gabriel has largely failed to adapt and settle into English football, even after a year and a half at Arsenal. With this in mind, Arsene Wenger is keen to add to his defensive options and look for a suitable partner for Laurent Koscielny. Some have raised the question as to whether Calum Chambers could be up to the challenge next season, with many fans keen to see the young Englishman be more involved with the first team. However it’s quite possibly Chambers could be heading out on loan, whilst for Arsenal’s other young English centre back Isaac Hayden, he will be leaving the club in a permanent move.
Hayden never really broke into the first team, despite making the odd appearance on the bench for the Gunners. He only made two appearances for Arsenal, both in the League Cup and made his debut in 2013. The 21 year old spent last season out on loan at Hull City after Wenger decided that he wasn’t in his plans for the season and now it seems that Le Prof has made up his mind on whether Hayden will make it at Arsenal.
Personally from the very little opportunities that I saw of Hayden, as well as his time out on loan, he wasn’t overly impressive. He did relatively well on the occasions but is definitely not at Arsenal’s level and so it is only right to see Hayden move on.
Hayden is expected to sign for Newcastle later today on a five year deal after completing his medical earlier. It is unknown what kind of fee Arsenal will get for the youngster, but The Gunners aren’t expected to get muchmore than 5million for him.
Who is likely to be the next one out the door?
By AH