Arsenal legend Charlie Nicholas has claimed that the London club should have signed England international Chris Smalling in the summer. Smalling made the move to Roma on loan after falling out of favor with Manchester United.
He has, however, become a revelation at the Italian club with good performances in the centre back position with his pace and power a major attribute. Arsenal meanwhile have struggled to maintain defensive discipline this season having thrown away leads in three consecutive matches.
David Luiz signed from Chelsea in the summer has not had the desired impact that the club thought that he could bring. Nicholas speaking to Sky Sports believes that Arsenal should have gotten Smalling in the summer since he was better than the current options at the club.
Arsenal’s loss is Roma’s gain with the Italian club looking likely to finalize the transfer in the summer as manager Paulo Fonseca is keen on the England international. Arsenals meanwhile continue to move from one trouble to another.
When the Xhaka saga appeared to be over after the club stripped him of the captaincy, the Gunners fumbled to a 1-1 draw against Vitoria Guimares in the Europa League. They face high flying Leicester away in the weekend in what could prove to be the final game for manager Unai Emery.
Meanwhile, another former Manchester United stalwart Rafael Da Silva has been linked with a move to Italian side Napoli. Napoli have endured a difficult campaign this season with the players and board at odd with each other.
There have been speculations that a number of signings could arrive at the club in January with Rafael among the players suggested. It is thought that the Brazilian is seen as one that can bring competition to ElseidHysaj who has been linked with a move from the club.