Arsenal considering SHOCK transfer for ex-Tottenham star

Suraj Radia

• Updated: 24 Jan 2024 17:53 GMT
• 3 min read

Arsenal could make a shock move for a former Tottenham player, with Mikel Arteta still keen on strengthening his defence before the end of the month.

The Gunners sit five points behind leaders Liverpool in the Premier League and are desperate to ensure they do not fall short in their push for the title after last season’s disappointment.

However, Arsenal, like many sides, find themselves at the mercy of financial fair play restraints, having spent more than £200 million in the summer, meaning their scope for business this month is limited.

With Arsenal having won just two of their last eight games across all competitions, Arteta is still hoping to add quality in depth to his squad in any way he can, with a versatile wing-back said to be high on his list of priorities.

That has led to speculation that a move for Kyle Walker-Peters could materialise in the coming week, with teamTALK claiming that the Southampton star is a ‘name to keep an eye on’ before the window closes.

Tottenham and Chelsea have also been linked with a move for the 26-year-old, who has been integral to Southampton’s promotion push from the Championship this season.

Arsenal’s long-term interest in Walker-Peters

Walker-Peters came through the academy at Tottenham but he made just 12 appearances in the Premier League before moving to Southampton in 2020.

He has established himself as a reliable and versatile defender during his time with the Saints, which led to his first caps for England in 2022.

With his contract set to expire in 18 months time, Southampton could be convinced to part ways with Walker for the right amount, however there is no suggestion that Arsenal could meet their demands this month.

Arsenal have been looking at full-backs with Takehiro Tomiyasu and Jurrien Timber still sidelined and the Gunners have been long-time admirers of Walker-Peters, who can play on both sides of the defence.

But it would perhaps require a player to be sold first or a loan-to-buy proposal to be agreed with Southampton if they were to bring in Walker-Peters this month, something which may prove difficult with the transfer window winding down.