Why Arsenal reviving their interest in Caglar Soyuncu would be good

According to Mirror, Arsenal could revive their interest in Leicester City defender Caglar Soyuncu, whom they missed out in the summer of 2018.

Soyuncu had earlier confirmed that he hoped to play for Arsenal, while he was at Freiburg. Arsenal were the favourites to sign the defender but a move never materialized as Unai Emery was content with Calum Chambers’ improvement, according to the Mirror.

The Turkish international then moved to Leicester City for a fee of £19m. In his first season with the Foxes, he spent most of the time on the bench due to the presence of the established Harry Maguire. This season, Soyuncu has been a revelation at the back for Leicester.

After the departure of Maguire, Brendan Rodgers has surely seen something in the youngster and has given him a start alongside Jonny Evans in all the League matches this season. The decision paid off well and Leicester have conceded just 8 goals in 12 games, boasting of the best defensive unit so far in the league.

Soyuncu, at the age of 23, already has 28 caps for Turkey and with his strong performances in the Euro Qualifiers, Turkey are placed second in the group behind leaders France.

Meanwhile, David Luiz, who was signed as a replacement for Laurent Koscielny, has not lived up to his expectations so far. Along with Sokratis at the heart of defence, the Gunners have been vulnerable and do not seem to be improving, as they have conceded 16 goals in 12 Premier League games.

The Gunners have just two options left on the bench in Shkodran Mustafi and Rob Holding, who are very inconsistent.

Since his arrival, Luiz has been error-prone and he has found it extremely difficult to form a partnership with Sokratis who also seems to have some defensive frailties.

With Luiz and Sokratis past 30 years of age, they may not remain at their best and time would come when Arsenal have to part ways with the once-dominant centre-backs.

Bringing Soyuncu to the Emirates will be the best option Emery would have, given his age and he could be at Arsenal for a longer time.

According to Whoscored, the Turkish defender averages 2.3 tackles, 1.5 interceptions and 5.5 clearances per game in the Premier League so far. Former England defender Martin Keown has described Soyuncu as a defender made for the modern game.

The 23-year-old may not be the tallest defender but he seems to reach an impressive height while going for the aerial duals and is never afraid to make tackles. He seems to be a tough lad and also doesn’t panic when in possession of the ball.

Verdict

Caglar Soyuncu has all the qualities to succeed at a higher level and with experience, he would become one of the best defenders in Europe.

Leicester may not let him go easily as he has a contract with them until 2023, but should Emery make a strong statement in securing his service, Arsenal’s defensive record could be much better in his presence.