Arsenal missed out on Champions League football for yet another season as they finished 5th in the Premier League under Unai Emery.
The Gunners narrowly missed out on a top-four place and also made it to the final of the Europa League, only to lose 4-1 to Chelsea on the night. A win would have also booked them a place in Europe’s premier competition next term.
Despite missing out on the Champions League, it was a decent first season for Emery after taking over from long-term manager Arsene Wenger.
Emery was let down by his side’s defending throughout the season, with many fans pointing to the central defenders not being good enough to compete at the top end of the Premier League.
With that in mind, Arsenal may look to sign some centre-backs this summer to strengthen their squad. Here are some that the club could target to push on next season…
Kostas Manolas
Arsenal could pair Sokratis and Manolas together, with the duo playing alongside each other at international level for Greece. Manolas has been excellent for Roma in recent seasons.
Ezri Konsa
The England under-21 international is a great prospect for the future, whilst also being good enough to be involved next season as a rotation option.
Mamadou Sakho
Arsenal could look to sign Crystal Palace defender Mamadou Sakho. When fit, Sakho is a very impressive defender. Strong in the air and good on the ball, Sakho would be an upgrade to Arsenal’s team.
Issa Diop
Diop has been linked with a move to Manchester United this week. The French defender would also be a superb signing for the Gunners if they brought him to The Emirates next season.
Ben Godfrey
Godfrey has been linked with a move to Arsenal this year following his impressive performances for Norwich in the Championship. The England under-20 international is composed on the ball and strong in the tackle.
Nacho Fernandez
Nacho’s game time at Real Madrid last season was limited and he could be tempted by a move to the Premier League. The Spanish international would be a solid addition to Emery’s Arsenal squad.
Mario Hermoso
The Spanish centre-back was excellent for Espanyol in La Liga last season. Hermoso is a pacey central defender who is also a good passer in possession. He could be the ideal signing for the Gunners.