Arsenal Transfers: 5 Defensive Midfielders Who Could Power The Gunners To Glory

1. Nemanja Mati‡

Standing high at 6ft 4in, the towering Serbian has been debatably SL Benfica's most important player since arriving from Chelsea in 2011, after being part of the player-plus-cash deal for Brazilian defender David Luiz. His talent has not gone unnoticed either, winning the 2012/13 Primeira Liga player of the Year, plus gaining interest from Manchester United, Liverpool and former club Chelsea. However, Matic has a release clause of £42 million, whilst Benfica are only willing to listen to offers in excess of £38 million. What makes Mati‡ such an asset is the fact that he is very good on the ball, retaining all the attributes from his days as an attacking midfielder, at Slovakian team MFK Košice, and can pick a pass. Combined with his ability to swiftly turn defense into attack, means that opposition teams will have to be wary of a counter attack. He does have a bullet shot too, as he showcased with a stunning volley against title rivals, FC Porto. Nicknamed the Spider as he seems to have a leg in each area of the pitch, he uses his height to his advantage defensively, his long lanky legs can poke the ball away from opponents, and you will constantly find him on the backs of attackers making himself a nuisance for attackers, winning the ball with a strong tackle. You also get the bonus of an imposing player aerially and physically, something Arsenal have lacked since Patrick Viera. However, Mati‡ does have a poor disciplinary record, picking up 16 yellows and 2 reds last season in all competitions. But this can be an intimidating statics for some attackers, knowing they are getting pitched up against a tough midfield enforcer.
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18 years old. Southampton FC season ticket holder. Keen writer and love sharing my opinions with others. Looking to gain experience before starting a Sports Journalism course at university in 2014.