Juventus defender Stephan Lichtsteiner is all set to sign for Arsenal on a free transfer.
Lichtsteiner is highly tied to Arsenal lately and is all set to become Unai Emery’s first Arsenal signing. Many reports suggest Lichtsteiner was spotted at Arsenal’s Colonely Training Ground this week.
Arrival of Mattia De Sciglio has limited opportunities for Stephan Lichtsteiner and he recently confirmed his Juventus departure.
“I’m playing in one of the biggest clubs in Europe and there’s always competition for places, but my future is going to be away from Turin. At the end of the season I’m leaving. I’ll play abroad next year but I’ve not signed anything yet.” – Lichtsteiner said confirming his Juventus departure.
Stephan Lichtsteiner will probably serve as a back-up to Hector Bellerin
Arsenal have one of the best right-back in Hector Bellerin. Hector Bellerin was Arsenal’s highest played player last season, but lack of competition have saw supporters unhappy with his efforts sometimes.
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With lack of back-up on the right side defensively to Hector Bellerin, Lichtsteiner will serve as a perfect fit for the Gunners. He will not only be a ‘back-up’ to Hector Bellerin, but also give Hector required competition regularly. 34-year-old veteran is not a long term solution to having an ideal back-up for Hector Bellerin,Arsenal would be looking to have, though he fits perfectly into a short term reliable full-back – Who can step up when needed.
And with the talent Hector Bellerin possesses, the signing would just give the Spaniard enough time and competition to develop himself into a beast.
Thirty-four sounds old, though Lichtsteiner featured 32 times for Juventus last season, which tells he is still capable of conducting business at the highest level.
Stephan Lichtsteiner joined Juventus from Lazio in 2011 and has featured over three hundred times for the Turin based side. He has been an integral part of the men in Black and White, for the seven seasons he has spent at Juventus – helping them acclaim 14 trophies and couple of Champions League final appearances. He has helped Juventus won Scudetto in every season he spent at Turin.
Stephan Lichtsteiner celebrating Scudetto win with Giorgio Chiellini
Lichtsteiner would also bring ‘much-required’ leadership to Arsenal’s defence and squad in whole. With Per Mertesacker retiring and Laurent Koscielny out with tendon problem for long time – Arsenal desperately need experienced leaders who could lead from the back. Petr Cech will also have to take up the responsibility.
Other than being full back, Stephan Lichtsteiner can play as a winger as well as wing-back. He is a hard working and dynamic defender, who makes his presence felt. Stephan also possesses tactical intelligence.
