3 reasons why Arsenal should walk away from the Caicedo deal

NOTTINGHAM, ENGLAND - APRIL 26: Moises Caicedo of Brighton and Hove Albion in action during the Premier League match between Nottingham Forest and Brighton & Hove Albion at City Ground on April 26, 2023 in Nottingham, England. (Photo by Nigel French/Sportsphoto/Allstar via Getty Images)
NOTTINGHAM, ENGLAND - APRIL 26: Moises Caicedo of Brighton and Hove Albion in action during the Premier League match between Nottingham Forest and Brighton & Hove Albion at City Ground on April 26, 2023 in Nottingham, England. (Photo by Nigel French/Sportsphoto/Allstar via Getty Images) /
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Arsenal have been linked with Real Valladolid defender Ivan Fresneda. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)
Arsenal have been linked with Real Valladolid defender Ivan Fresneda. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images) /

#2: A full-back purchase can work just as well

Despite the obvious appeal of Caicedo’s full-back strengths, Arsenal could equally address their midfield/backline issues by bringing in an invertible defender.

The arrival of Rice would likely force Caicedo out of his usual no. 6 position and see him predominantly feature as a no.8 or even at fullback – roles he certainly has the talent to perform. However, his versatile nature constitutes a luxury we can manage without, and there are many cheaper options that can help us achieve a better overall window.

Real Valladolid defender Iván Fresneda is one standout name available for a pittance after the Spanish side’s relegation, while RB Leipzig’s Mohamed Simakan has also been linked to the Emirates and can slot into central areas.

In short, Arsenal need to buy either ‘Ricedo’ or Rice + a fullback and should therefore not allow Brighton to hold them to ransom.

Continued on the next slide…