According to a report from Spanish outlet Mundo Deportivo, Arsenal are in the race with fellow rivals Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester City for the signing of former Barcelona full-back Dani Alves this summer.
The Brazilian parted ways with French champions Paris Saint-Germain at the end of last season and is now available on a free transfer. Alves, despite being 36 years old, hasn’t lost his quality as evident with his exploits at the Copa America. The former Juventus man helped Brazil to clinch the title and Alves was rightfully crowned as the player of the tournament.
Alves will certainly bring in a ton of experience to any side he ends up with this summer and a potential reunion with former boss Pep Guardiola could potentially help push a deal to the blue side of Manchester. However, the Brazilian has also worked with Unai Emery in the past and the Arsenal boss should use his relationship to sway him to the Emirates this summer.
Hector Bellerin is yet to return from his long-term injury and Ainsley Maitland-Niles could have to start the campaign at right full-back. The young Englishman did brilliantly in Bellerin’s absence last season but the void left by Aaron Ramsey in central midfield could open the door for Niles in his natural position.
The departure of Stephan Lichtsteiner leaves Arsenal with no other experienced backup at right-back and signing Alves could solve the problem temporarily. The Brazilian’s experience, quality and leadership will certainly benefit the Gunners and his winning mentality could help them reach their ambitions next season.
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