Portsmouth closing on agreement for Arsenal player

Portsmouth have agreed a deal to sign Zak Swanson from Arsenal according to Football Insider.

Danny Cowley is looking for a defensive-minded versatile player and Swanson could fit that bill in dropping down to League One.

The 21-year-old was on the bench in all of the Gunners’ final 15 matches in the Premier League last term, but appears set for a move away as pre-season speeds up in the coming weeks.

Swanson chipped in with four goal contributions in 11 starts in Premier League 2 last season, where he was able to showcase his very impressive versatility.

With Cowley set to tinker between four and three at the back systems again at Fratton Park, a player who is able to slot into the defensive trio from a midfield role mid-game can be very helpful, smoothening the transition between systems.

Cowley has an excellent record at developing younger players in recent years, and Swanson may see that as a pulling factor towards Fratton Park as he looks to establish himself in the senior game.

Even though he was an unused substitute on all 15 occasions, being around the quality of player and the professional atmosphere at Arsenal towards the back end of the season, with a place in the top four in the Premier League on the line, has to stand Swanson in good stead to adjust quickly on the South Coast.

The Verdict

There are no guarantees that Swanson will be able to hit the ground running, having not played a single minute of English senior football, however with the way recruitment is heading in the EFL, and the production line out of the Arsenal academy in recent years, it would be an intriguing pick-up for an ambitious third tier side.

Cowley’s important role in the development of Emile Smith Rowe, in a loan spell at Huddersfield