Emmanuel Petit, the former Arsenal midfielder, has recommended that the Gunners make a surprise move for Brighton & Hove Albion centre-back Lewis Dunk in the upcoming summer transfer window. Dunk, who is 31 years old, has made a remarkable 407 appearances for the Seagulls, having progressed through their academy and now captains the south coast club. Brighton have had a fantastic season so far and are currently seventh in the Premier League with games in hand as they battle for European qualification. In addition, Roberto De Zerbi’s side are also in the FA Cup semi-finals and will face Manchester United on April 23.
Dunk, who is under contract until 2025, has impressed in defence this term, and Petit has urged Arsenal to consider a move for him at the end of the season. “For me, [Arsenal] need at least one more central defender and at least one wing-back, ideally someone who can play on both sides,” Petit told Compare.bet. “With Arsenal having Champions League football next year, they will need depth across the defence. I’m a big fan of Brighton and I think there are a few players on that team that would improve Arsenal. I really like Lewis Dunk; he’s been playing so well and he would be a good addition for Arsenal.”
Arsenal signed Dunk’s former team-mate Leandro Trossard in January, and Petit has been impressed with the ex-Brighton star at the Emirates. “I’m not surprised he’s had such a big impact,” Petit added. “He’s such an intelligent player and he suits the way Arsenal want to play perfectly. His movement is so clever; he’s so good in tight spaces and he can play on the wing or as a striker. I am very happy with him; he’s a bargain for Arsenal. It’s not easy changing teams in January, and he had an instant impact.”
Arsenal are still due to face Brighton once more this season, with the sides set to meet in north London on May 14.
Meanwhile, Arsenal have set a price for Folarin Balogun amid interest from a German club. The Gunners are reportedly willing to sell the 19-year-old striker for £8 million, with Stuttgart said to be interested in his services. Balogun has scored two goals in six appearances for Arsenal this season, but his contract is set to expire in the summer. Arsenal goalkeeper Matt Turner has also sent a message to Mikel Arteta over his lack of game time, stating that he is ready to play whenever called upon. Turner has yet to make an appearance for the Gunners since joining the club in January.