Arsenal summer target making new league look ‘easy’ as astonishing stats emerge

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Arsenal may look to add to their defensive ranks in the January transfer window, and a previous target may now be more appealing.

Mikel Arteta was reportedly keen on Southampton defender Kyle Walker-Peters in the summer window before he signed Jurrien Timber from Ajax, but the Dutchman picked up a long-term injury on his Premier League debut.

Walker-Peters stayed at Southampton, who were relegated to the Championship last season, and it has now become clear that he should be playing at a higher level.

Walker-Peters has been outstanding for Southampton

Broadcaster Dougie Critchley has highlighted how good the 26-year-old has been this season, with his stats ranking him amongst the best defenders in the division.

He is first place among Championship players for progressive passes and carries into the final third, is second place for progressive carries and passes into the penalty area, and is sixth for passes into the final third.

“That’s a very good Premier League player finding it very easy!” Critchley added on X.

These outstanding stats make him one of the best defenders in the Championship, and Arsenal may want to revisit their interest in him.

Should Arsenal sign Kyle Walker-Peters?

Having previously played for Tottenham Hotspur, it is unclear whether the Englishman would be open to a move to Arsenal, but he could be a very useful addition.

Arsenal are short at the back, and injuries to Timber and Takehiro Tomiyasu have worsened the situation.

Walker-Peters is typically a right-back, but can play on both sides, and his incredible ability on the ball may even mean that he can provide cover for Oleksandr Zinchenko in an inverted role on the left, with the Ukranian receiving criticism for his defensive displays.

It is unclear whether Southampton would be open to a sale in January, but he could certainly be a strong addition to the squad as a versatile, in-form backup.

Arsenal collapsed in the title race last season when William Saliba and Tomiyasu picked up injuries, and Arteta had inadequate cover at his disposal. He will be eager to avoid the same mistake, particularly given the number of injuries he has already had to deal with.

Walker-Peters’ contract expires in 2025, and if Arsenal do register his interest, he may be open to a Premier League move, but with Southampton currently fourth and pushing for promotion, this may not be straightforward.

Nevertheless, he is a player at the top of his game, capable of playing at a higher level and playing in a position where Arsenal need extra depth. If a deal is possible at the right price, it is one Arsenal should consider.