Arsenal Considering Ryan Bertrand as Left-Back Cover

Tyrick Mitchell on Arsenal’s List of Targets

Away from more established options, Crystal Palace defender Tyrick Mitchell features on the list of targets Arsenal are pursuing this window and beyond.

Usurping Patrick van Aanholt in the Eagles’ first team, the Brentford and Palace academy graduate has emerged as one of the most exciting full-backs in the country this season.

Using recency bias alone, he put in a fine display against the Gunners as the south London club ran a tight ship during the 0-0 draw at the Emirates Stadium.

Interestingly, the 21-year-old – also homegrown, of course – has just six months left on his deal at Selhurst Park with no agreement made regarding his long-term future. Given the circumstances, the Eagles are dealing with a pack of hovering vultures, one of whom are just north of the river Thames.

A host of Premier League sides are keeping a keen eye on Mitchell, who Roy Hodgson’s side are at risk of losing for free in the summer. If they can be tempted with a low-ball offer in order to accrue funding of any kind, their hand could be forced.

This would be an option more suited to long-term ambitions, and he could continue to develop and learn his trade under Arteta’s tutelage as opposed to being a direct backup option. Impressing with each minute played in the Premier League, his signing would nail down another position in the squad that could then be left to its own devices, much like the left side of central defence where Gabriel Magalhaes and Pablo Mari leave no uncertainties.

An exciting, smart and promising target.