Who could Arsenal sign if Real Madrid signed Kieran Tierney?
Who could Arsenal sign if Real Madrid signed Kieran Tierney?
By Jonny Bray
Kieran Tierney has been the subject of interest from Barcelona and Real Madrid.
The Scotland international has been a shining light at the Emirates since his arrival from Celtic, so it was to be expected that he would attract the attention of European giants eventually.
However, he seems intent on staying in North London, much to the delight of Gunners fans.
But the links with a move away has begged the question, who would Arsenal sign to replace the 24-year-old if he were to depart?
Tyrick Mitchell
Crystal Palace Academy graduate Tyrick Mitchell has been one of the standout stars during a great season at Selhurst Park.
Under Patrick Vieira, the north London born defender has come on leaps and bounds, adding an improved attacking threat to his already reputable defensive skills.
Having made his debut for England against Switzerland before earning his first start against Côte d'Ivoire, Mitchell now founds himself in contention to make Gareth Southgate's squad for the World Cup in Qatar.
So maybe it is best Arsenal move for the 22-year-old now before his value increases even more.
Renan Lodi
If Arsenal qualify for the Champions League, they will be able to sign a higher calibre of player.
Renan Lodi could be one of those players, considering he has proved himself as one of the top young defenders in Europe under Diego Simeone at Atletico Madrid.
He's made 22 appearances in the league this season, scoring two goals and providing one assist while also being a part of a typically tight Simeone defence.
He's also proven himself a capable operator in the Champions League, where he has already played eight games, scoring one goal and assisting two more.
And at 23, the Brazil international still has plenty of time to add to his game.
Raphaël Guerreiro
Raphaël Guerreiro has been a revelation since converting from left-midfield to left-back at Borussia Dortmund.
The Portugal international has been a crucial part of the German side's attack this season, scoring four goals and registering two assists across 18 appearances in the league.
There would be question marks around his defending at Premier League level, having been part of a relatively shaky defence for a few years now.
However, there might not be a better time to sign him, considering he is now 28.
Dortmund also appear to be on the decline, on the verge of losing Jude Bellingham and Erling Haaland after being eliminated from the Europa League this season by Rangers.
Luca Netz
Borussia Mönchengladbach have an extremely exciting young talent on their hands in Luca Netz.
The 18-year-old left-back has played 18 games in the league so far this season, recording four assists despite his young age.
If the Mönchengladbach youngster can continue his upward trajectory, then there is no doubt that he could have a bright future in North London.
He would also fit the type of player Arteta has looked to sign during his tenure at Arsenal.
Conclusion
All four options have different strengths and weaknesses.
Mitchell has proven Premier League experience, but we would have to pay a premium for that, and he would still be a risk.
As fans have seen with Aaron Wan-Bissaka, sometimes defensive full-backs do not transition well into the top six sides.
Hopefully, Tierney will just stay at Arsenal for years to come.
Photo Credit: Getty Images
