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Arsenal ponder move for versatile Turkey star after year-long watching brief

Arsenal have identified Mert Muldur as an option to strengthen them at right-back, according to reports.

There are currently doubts about the future of Hector Bellerin at the Emirates Stadium. He has been a good servant to the club over several years, but might now be considering his future. After Arsenal missed out on European qualification, the Spaniard may view this as an opportunity to join a club more ready to challenge for honours.

In the event of his departure, Arsenal would need to find a replacement. They already have Cedric Soares and Calum Chambers at right-back, but may need an upgrade to be the first choice.

According to The Athletic, one name they are considering is Sassuolo and Turkey defender Muldur. The 22-year-old played 28 times in Serie A last season and is outlining his potential.

Arsenal have been watching his progress over the past year and like what they have seen. Therefore, he could be an option to replace Bellerin.

Not only that, he would be able to cover in other positions as well. For example, at Turkey’s ill-fated Euro 2020 campaign, he played on the left-hand side of defence.

It just so happens that Arsenal are also looking to strengthen that position with more cover for Kieran Tierney. It seems they are close to signing Nuno Tavares, but Muldur could help them if ever both were unavailable.

At present, it is not yet clear how much Muldur might cost. Sassuolo have him under contract until 2024 after spending just over £4m to sign him in 2019.

Interestingly, a report in Austria – the country in which Muldur was born – recently claimed north London rivals Tottenham Hotspur were also keen on signing him. Therefore, the two clubs could go head to head for his signature.

Five areas for Arsenal to strengthen

The report mentions Muldur as one of the targets Arsenal could sign as they look to improve five positions.

It will be a busy summer at the Emirates as the club seek to modify their squad in order to get back up the table next season. As such, they have a number of areas to improve.

As mentioned above, they want reinforcements in both full-back positions.

In addition, they are looking for an attacking midfielder to replace Martin Odegaard after his loan spell from Real Madrid ended. A goalkeeper is also on the agenda after Bernd Leno suffered from some inconsistency last season. Then, they are also keen to find more experience in midfield.

That could just be the beginning of their plans, though, as reports keep suggesting targets in other positions too.

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