Arsenal target move for experienced Juventus defender
Published:Arsenal are lining up a bid to bring Juventus defender Stephan Lichtsteiner to north London as they look to ease their defensive crisis.
Injuries to Mathieu Debuchy, Laurent Koscielny and Kieran Gibbs have left Arsene Wenger short of options at the back and according to various reports in Italy, the Gunners boss is ready to make a move for the Swiss international.
The 30-year-old, who has made 68 appearances for his country, is out of contract next summer and Arsenal, who are reportedly in advanced talks with the player’s representatives, are hoping to tie up a deal in January.
Failing that Wenger’s side could negotiate a deal for the right-back, who can play in all four positions across the defence, to join on a free transfer next summer.
The former Lazio man, who has won three Serie A titles during his time in Turin, has been in and out of the Juve side so far this season and is thought to be open to a switch to the Emirates Stadium and to test himself in the Premier League.
Lichtsteiner has not ruled out signing a new deal to stay at the Juventus Stadium but Arsenal are at the front of the queue to sign the experienced defender should he call time on his career in Turin.
However, the Gunners face competition from Inter Milan to sign Switzerland’s right-back, who was linked to a move to Chelsea earlier this year, in January or next summer when he can leave the club on a free transfer.
The former Lille man has a wealth of experience after making 200 appearances for both Lazio and Juve in Italy and he is sure to give Arsenal, who are 25/1 to lift the Premier League trophy, a major lift should he make the move to Ashburton Grove.
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