Arsenal should have been looking to take Chris Smalling from Manchester United over the summer, says Charlie Nicholas, with the Gunners told they “don’t sign personalities” amid ongoing defensive struggles.
Unai Emery did bring one flamboyant figure into his back four during the last transfer window, with David Luiz snapped up from London rivals Chelsea.
His experience is expected to prove useful over the course of the 2019-20 campaign, but the general consensus is that another proven centre-half is required at Emirates Stadium.
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That is because Arsenal continue to spring leaks, with just five clean sheets recorded across all competitions this season – with only two of those coming in the Premier League.