Arsenal Transfers: Picking One Player From Each Ligue 1 Side

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Rennes: Gelson Fernandes

I’m not getting creative with this choice. I’m not taking the creative minds or the young prospects. I am taking the hulking bruiser that patrols the base of midfield with very strong qualities. That is the mantra of 29 year old Swiss midfielder Gelson Fernandes.

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Speaking practically, Fernandes actually makes sense from an Arsenal perspective. At 29 years old, he could pitch in a year or two until Hayden, Bielik and whoever else is ready.

Fernandes is a strong defensive mind. He averages a stout five tackles per appearance and 2.3 interceptions as well. Those are Lars Bender numbers. Fernandes also has a goal and an 87% pass completion. Sounds like an older Francis Coquelin.

Arsenal is in desperate need for a defensive midfielder, in case you have not heard. But finding a true defensive-minded body that fills that role is not always so easy. Gelson Fernandes is one such guy.

Next up, the stomping grounds of Laurent Koscielny – Lorient.

Next: Lorient