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What does the signing of Riccardo Calafiori mean for Arsenal's other defenders?
- The transfer seems imminent and could mean changes for the Gunners' current defenders
Jurrien Timber
Many thought Jurrien Timber would be Arsenal's first-choice left back upon his return from injury, but the potential signing of Calafiori may have thrown this into doubt. Timber could hold onto the position while the Italian takes time to adapt to Premier League football, but he may be replaced relatively soon.
Timber is incredibly versatile and is capable of covering all defensive positions so he will still hold an important role with the Gunners. He played in central defence in Arsenal's 2-0 behind-closed-doors victory over Leyton Orient so could perhaps be preferred in this position going into the new season.
Jakub Kiwior
Jakub Kiwior looks set to be the first real victim of the Riccardo Calafiori signing. The Gunners are reported to be willing to accept offers for the Poland international.
Plenty of clubs are interested in signing Kiwior this summer, so he is likely to leave the club in order to make way for Calafiori. This would certainly be a disappointing exit considering the progress he has made in his one-and-a-half seasons at the club.
Takehiro Tomiyasu
Takehiro Tomiyasu is a brilliant footballer but has never had the chance to be a consistent starter for Arsenal due to his injury struggles. He is already battling these difficulties once again and has missed out on the Gunners' USA tour as a result.
When fit, Tomiyasu is likely to continue to act as defensive cover, so his place is not under threat from Calafiori. Like Timber, he is able to play in each position of defence quite comfortably.
Oleksandr Zinchenko
Oleksandr Zinchenko had a run of poor form toward the end of last season and as a result, many would have preferred him to leave the club instead of Jakub Kiwior. If Kiwior does end up departing this summer, it is likely Zinchenko will stay.
Due to the better talent Mikel Arteta has at his disposal, he is unlikely to be a starter this season and will have to settle with being a deputy to Riccardo Calafiori. However, with the return of Jurrien Timber from injury, the Ukraine international could instead switch to a more midfield-focused role this season, one that would be better suited to his abilities.