Arsenal Transfers: 5 Centre Backs Wenger Should Sign
5. Nicolas N'Koulou (Olympique de Marseille)
Nicolas NKoulou has been continually linked with a move away from Marseille this season, with Arsenal, Liverpool and Manchester City believed to be at the front of the queue. He has struggled for form during this campaign, as have Marseille themselves, who find themselves in sixth place in Ligue 1. It was NKoulous form last season that earned him plaudits from across Europe. The Cameroon international was imperious at the heart of lOMs defence as they finished second to the Qatari-owned PSG. lie Baups side conceded 36 goals over the course of the league campaign, with NKoulous athleticism and strength making him a stand-out performer. It is his pace and power that will undoubtedly attract the Cameroonian to Wenger, and there is a resemblance to a young Kolo Toure that demonstrates he has bags of potential. As is the norm with modern centre backs, NKoulou is comfortable in possession. A criteria for Wenger will be that his defensive transfer targets must be able to be the source of attacks and the Marseille man fulfils that requirement. He is also able to deputise at right back, another quality which only adds to his allure.
Simon is an NCTJ qualified sports journalist. He has conducted interviews with Tony Adams and Peter Shilton, while also having work published in The Daily Telegraph and The Sun. Follow him on Twitter via @sr_collings.
