Can Arsenal afford to lose Shkodran Mustafi to Inter Milan?

Add as preferred source on Google

Arsenal defender Shkodran Mustafi has been the latest player subject of a move away from the Emirates, with a switch to Inter Milan supposedly on the cards.

The Italian giants are said to have been in contact with the German international ahead of a move, if reports from Gianluca Di Marzio are to be believed.

Nonetheless, here are three reasons why Arsenal cannot lose Shkodran Mustafi.

The German provides vital depth

Arsenal are short on defenders as it is, having to field left-back Nacho Monreal in a centre-back role against Leicester, alongside new signing Sead Kolasinac and 21-year-old Rob Holding.

With manager Arsene Wenger insistent on playing a back three, it is very important to add depth in this position. Mustafi is a player able to fill any of the centre-back roles (right, left, or central) and could well prove to be an important player for the London club this season.

Mustafi has a great deal of quality

The defender had much success at his previous club Valencia and is, of course, a World cup winner with Germany – testament to his ability.

Statistically, he is also one of the Gunners’ better defenders.

26 appearances in the league last season saw him manage on average 2.2 tackles per game and 2.5 interceptions per game.

Compared to Laurent Koscielny, who many believe to be Arsenal’s best defender, who, in 33 league appearances, registered 1.5 tackles and 2.7 interceptions per game.

The German is a fine defender and should be a starter for his side once he is fully fit. Furthermore, a back three of Mustafi, Holding and Koscielny has real potential.

He has time on his side

The German international is a player who, at 25, is young for a defender and still has many years to improve.

Under the guidance of Wenger, and fellow defenders Laurent Koscielny and Per Mertesacker, not only could the ex-Valencia man be an excellent player for the London club, but he could also succeed his teammates as the club’s defensive leader.

He portrayed his quality with a solid first season at the club and, if Arsenal are loyal to him, they may see the German play out his best years in red and white.