Arsenal’s 5 current right-back transfer targets – ranked

2. Max Aarons – Norwich

Age: 21
Nationality: English
Contract Expiry: 2024
Price Tag: £30m

What a superb talent Max Aarons is. Wanted by half of Europe, Arsenal throwing their hat into the ring is absolutely the right move to take. He really is that good.

The immediate eye test shows a right-back of smaller stature, one who understandably doesn’t win many aerial duels. But that does not detract from the rest of his abilities as with some of the other players on the list, such as Celik, who also doesn’t boast a huge frame.

An England team blessed with a bizarre amount of talent at right-back doesn’t have someone with the same ball carrying style as Aarons. He isn’t deserving of a place in the squad yet given the players at Gareth Southgate’s disposal, but the manner with which he glides with the ball in a series of measured touches as opposed to, say, a Kyle Walker who has exceptional brutality at full tilt is unique to the Three Lions setup.

Someone who loves carrying into the box, such freedom is granted to him by Daniel Farke. It was the cause of so much despair in his previous Premier League venture as Norwich were horribly exposed regularly. At Arsenal, Bellerin is allowed to make the underlaps and run in between centre-back and full-back, which Aarons has to his game.

Closer to the touchline he has excellent composure in defensive actions, willing to not only tackle an opponent but dispossess them. There is still some work to be done with his positioning, but this can be coached. His crossing from deep is particularly alluring, something Arsenal don’t add to their game for variety.

What’s more, being homegrown is important. Arsenal are set for an English exodus and focusing their attentions on their British core, one Aarons can absolutely be a part of. His age is a huge bonus, while also possible a hindrance. Not the finished article, there is some desire for a player more prepared and experienced to come in.

Why he isn’t in top spot is the price. As a profile and skillset, he could be an Arsenal starter for years to come. He arguably should be, however, the ‘English tax’ has raised his price to £30m and with so much interest, any bidding war could see that figure climb. If he was cheaper, he’d be the one. A wonderful option to rebuild and reshape the outlook of this team.