Arsenal to swap Rob Holding for Armel Bella-Kotchap?

Southampton defender Armel Bella-Kotchap has emerged as a target for Arsenal, as club manager Mikel Arteta seeks to add defensive strength in depth to his squad before the transfer window closes. The German defender, who currently plays in the Championship, is desperate for a return to the Premier League. Bella-Kotchap is valued by the Saints at around £15 million.

Rob Holding has been offered as a makeweight in any deal, as the Englishman seeks regular first-team football. Holding has struggled in the past two years, with several high profile errors costing Arsenal.

Armel Bella-Kotchap arrived at Southampton in June 2022 from VfL Bochum and played 24 times in the Premier League for his team. Arsenal see the defender as a hot prospect for the future, and will even offer Holding plus cash in order to get a transfer deal over the line before the end of August.

Bella-Kotchap already has two caps for Germany, and played for his country at every single youth level before making his debut in 2022 in a 3-3 draw against England.