Two players Arsenal can sign to replace Granit Xhaka

Granit Xhaka is being strongly linked with a move to Atletico Madrid this summer and there are several candidates that Arsenal are rumoured to replace the midfielder.

Atleti are likely to push hard to get the deal over the line as they need to sign new quality and experienced players this summer. While Xhaka has flaws, he has been an important part of the Gunners setup in recent years. If he does depart, Unai Emery will have to think carefully about who he brings in to replace the Swiss international. The following are two players that he can consider:

Jordan Veretout

The 26-year-old has the ability to play as a number 10 and in a more deeper role. He is brilliant both defensively and in offense and has good creative ability. For the most part, the former France U-21 international is a player that plays in a defensive capacity though he does at times play as a box-to-box midfielder.

His impressive pass accuracy rate and can help to work the ball around and retain possession. While Veretout is not the most flashy player, he is a hard-worker who is underrated.

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Thomas Partey 

While not the best offensively, Partey is good at moving the ball around. The 25-year-old’s versatility also makes him a useful asset as he is capable of playing as a right-back, centre-back and defensive midfielder. Partey has all the qualities which are required to succeed in the Premier League from a good passing rate to solid defensive abilities.

While he is not a like-for-like replacement for Xhaka, he has the ability to be a success for Arsenal. Due to Atleti’s current situation, recruiting Partey may be a difficult task though the Gunners may have an advantage. The Spanish club could aim to sign Xhaka which will make negotiating this deal easier.

Featured Image Credit “Granit Xhaka” (CC BY 2.0) by Shotboxer Portland

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