Arsenal eye double defender swoop

Arsenal could complete a sensational double swoop for both Shkodran Mustafi and Jonny Evans before the season starts, according to reports.

The Daily Mirror is reporting that Arsenal could yet seal deals for Valencia defender Shkodran Mustafi, as well as West Bromich Albion’s Jonny Evans before the season kicks off this weekend.

The Gunners are known to be in the market for defensive reinforcements, with both Per Mertesacker and Gabriel Paulista rules out with long-term injuries – the latter picked up a severe ankle sprain during a friendly against Manchester City in Sweden last weekend.

The north London club are believed to be interested in Valencia’s Mustafi, with recent reports suggesting that the Spanish club are willing to accept offers of just €25 million for the former Everton player.

For a defender of Mustafi’s quality and experience, that would represent a bargain. The Germany international joined Valencia from Sampdoria two years ago, and was part of Joachim Lowe’s World Cup winning squad in 2014, as well as taking part in the recent UEFA European Championship in France, in which the Germans reached the semi-final before being eliminated by the host nation.

Evans only signed for West Brom in 2015, but has impressed during his short time at the Hawthorns. Evans has also been in excellent for on the international stage, having helped Northern Ireland reach the knockout stages of Euro 2016.

Despite being settled with the Baggies, the former Manchester United defender would likely jump at the chance to play Champions League football again.