Arsenal finalise big-money deal for Shkodran Mustafi - Twitter reacts

By Sam Leveridge

Arsenal have finally moved to fill a Per Mertesacker sized hole in their defence, replacing one big German with another by signing defender Shkodran Mustafi from Valencia in a deal reportedly worth in excess of £35 million, signing a four-year contract at the Emirates.

After long and drawn out negotiations, Arsene Wenger has finally got his hands on the man he initially targeted for defensive reinforcements. Mustafi enjoyed some fine form at Valencia, particularly alongside Nicolas Otamendi before his partner moved to Manchester City, and led the side through a tough spell last season.

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With Premier League experience having spent time at Everton before moving to Italy in search of regular first team football, Mustafi will come back stronger to the league where he first experienced life in the first team under David Moyes. His time in Italy and Spain mean that he has added a composure and calmness on the ball that few Premier League defenders possess, and those qualities should suit Arsenal down to a tee.

A World Cup winner in 2014 and regular for his country at Euro 2016 this summer, Mustafi has 12 caps to his name having been capped at every level since under 12s and is now establishing himself as first choice under Joachim Loew. With such a wealth of experience despite being just 24-years-old, it’s clear to see why Arsene Wenger targeted him as a new leader for his back line.

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At 6ft tall, he may not be the biggest centre-back around, and lapses in concentration mean that he can be prone to the odd error, but there are few better options on the market this summer. Mustafi has proven to have the quality in Serie A and La Liga and will now want to come back to the unfinished business in the Premier League that he left when he departed Goodison Park on a free transfer in 2012.

Here’s how Twitter reacted to the news:

Arsenal fans were in a delirious mood after their summer of inaction was reversed in the space of a day…

https://twitter.com/Ez__10/status/770715015146041345

https://twitter.com/missrubbersoul/status/770712067032711168

https://twitter.com/NatG_22/status/770709471282814978

For many, this move had greater significance than the signing of Lucas Perez earlier in the day…

https://twitter.com/afcTosi/status/770706936115372033

Arsenal’s potential defensive partnerships were already being mooted…

His utility to the first team and the squad was recognised…

Featured Image: All rights reserved by Habergaraj.