It is true that Arsenal has been linked with RB Leipzig defender Mohamed Simakan as a potential target for the upcoming summer transfer window. Mikel Arteta is reportedly looking to strengthen his squad after a disappointing season that saw them finish in eighth place in the Premier League.
One of the issues that Arsenal has faced this season is a lack of depth in certain positions, particularly in defense. Simakan, who is only 21 years old, can play as a center-back or a right-back, and his versatility could make him an attractive option for Arteta.
Simakan joined RB Leipzig from Strasbourg in 2021 and has made 33 appearances for the club this season. He is highly rated for his defensive abilities and has been tipped for a bright future in the game.
It remains to be seen if Arsenal will make a move for Simakan or if he will be willing to leave RB Leipzig, but if the reports are accurate, he could be a valuable addition to the Arsenal squad as they look to bounce back from a disappointing season.
WHAT HAPPENED?
As per The Guardian, the Gunners are showing ‘strong interest’ in the French central defender who signed a new contract until 2027 only last December, while Fabrizio Romano added that the 23-year-old has been scouted “multiple times”.
THE BIGGER PICTURE:
Injuries to William Saliba and Takehiro Tomiyasu derailed Arsenal’s title charge as Arteta and co. dropped key points without quite having the squad depth to handle their absences.
AND WHAT’S MORE:
With defenders such as Kieran Tierney, Nuno Tavares, Cedric Soares, Pablo Mari, Ainsley Maitland-Niles and Auston Trusty all potentially leaving the Emirates this summer, the north London club will be hoping for more cover in that position and Simikan could be an ideal target as he would arrive with Champions League experience as well as being able to cover multiple positions.
DID YOU KNOW?
Throughout the course of his career, the RB Leipzig man has shown great versatility, playing 78 games at centre-back and 31 times at right-back, while also operating as a wing-back and a midfielder on occasion.