Arsenal have earmarked Manchester United defender Eric Bailly and Chelsea’s Gary Cahill as potential transfer targets ahead of the January transfer window, claims ESPN.
Unai Emery fears Rob Holding will miss the rest of the season after suffering a serious knee injury in last week’s 2-2 draw against United and is keen to sign a replacement next month.
Arsenal have already progressed to the next round of the Europa League and Holding’s absence will place a lot of stress on the club’s current options, despite the return to fitness of Laurent Koscielny.
Bailly has been heavily linked with a move away from United this season after falling completely out of favour under Jose Mourinho.
The Ivory Coast international was the first signing made by Mourinho at United and the 24-year-old made an instant impact at the club, but has struggled to stay fit for prolonged periods and is now way down the pecking order.
After shelling out £30m on his signature less than three years ago, United will want to recoup their initial outlay and it remains to be seen whether Mourinho’s side would be willing to strengthen a direct rival midway through the season.
United have a better win ratio in the Premier League when Bailly has started (61.5%) compared to when he has not featured from the off (49.1% since August 2016.
Arsenal are also considering Cahill, who would represent a significantly cheaper option to Bailly. Cahill does not feature in Maurizio Sarri’s plans and has reportedly been told he can leave the club next month.
The 32-year-old is out of contract at the end of the season and a temporary loan move may suit Arsenal, allowing Holding to return to full fitness and feature back in Emery’s plans.
