Arsenal must battle Manchester United for bargain £8.5m transfer to replace Cedric Soares

Arsenal have reportedly been quoted a bargain price for the ideal Cedric Soares replacement ahead of next season but Edu will have to battle with Manchester United to secure the player's signature.

German news outlet BILD via The Express claimed that RB Leipzig defender Nordi Mukiele will leave the club this summer as his contract is set to expire in 2023 with no indication that he will renew. He will reportedly be available for £8.5m, with the Express reporting that Manchester United may be keeping tabs on him.

The Gunners need better defensive quality in the full-back areas, which Mukiele will be able to offer. His versatility also means that he can play across the defence, which will be a major benefit for Arsenal.

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Mukiele has played at both centre-back and at right-back throughout his career and has excelled in both positions. The Gunners could also require a central defensive signing at the end of the season, meaning Mukiele’s versatility would allow him to cover both areas of the pitch.

Despite the excellent acquisition of Tomiyasu from Bologna in a bargain £19.8m deal, Arteta’s side still requires another right-back in the squad. Due to the sale of Calum Chambers, it means that Tomiyasu has been left with little competition for his spot, with the Japan international showing himself to be prone to injury problems in his debut campaign at the Emirates.

Cedric Soares has been utilized as Tomiyasu’s back-up this campaign, but his performances have shown that he is not at the level that is required for Arsenal to be competing for a regular place in the Champions League. The Portugal international needs to be replaced