Seeing Sadio Mané blaze through Arsenal’s defense got Wenger thinking. He knew that Holding and Chambers do not have the experience to hold the fort but had no other option. Last year instead of Holding there was Monreal and the results were better but for a longer period of time would be pretty much the same. Fortunately it`s just the beginning of the season and there is still time for Wenger to bring in reinforcements. Apparently, the Frenchman’s main target is Shkodran Mustafi who is willing to leave right away. If the rumors are right, the problem is now with Valencia who want to get as much as possible for the German international. Even though simple at first glance, this move is turning out to be a lot more complicated than most. It`s so complicated in fact that Wenger is now looking for other solutions to fill in the massive gaps left by Koscielny, Gabriel and Mertesacker.

Today, three new options have emerged (two from Squawka and one by Metro), each and every one of them checking at least two of the three boxes (experience, adaptability, endurance) Wenger mentioned when speaking about the club’s transfer strategy regarding defenders.

1. Omer Toprak (27) – Bayern Leverkusen: Honestly I don’t know why Wenger did not consider this guy earlier in the summer. He is the perfect age, he has reached his career peak, he has Champions League experience and he is valued at around £20million which is a fair price. He has the physique for the Premier League and he has excellent field awareness to make up for his height. Unfortunately there’s a big risk to take with this Turkish international – he has picked up injuries almost every season since 2009 with the longest keeping him off the pitch for 70 days. He has muscular issues and had a torn tendon and a knee ligament operation both of which are known to take a toll on players over the age of 25.
2. Simon Kjær (27) – Fenerbahce: He’s very similar to Toprak just without the long injury list. He did have some ligament problems but they got fixed in less than two weeks so he should be fine. He has the international experience and he has a very strong physique. You could compare him to Chelsea’s Gary Cahill. He is very strong in the air, he is excellent in one-on-one duels and he often finds himself in front of goal where he has the skills to score. He is very fast for a player of his stature and has the attitude to lead a defense during difficult times. Even though he signed with the Turkish side just a year ago, a move to Arsenal would be a step up for him. He is now valued at £10million.
3. Aymen Abdennour (27) – Valencia: The Spanish side might not be willing to let Mustafi go but could agree to terms for this 27-year-old Tunisian international who is valued at around £15million. He is an excellent tackler and has a very impressive stature. He is a bit of a hazard to have around as he often has decisive tackles inside the box. He will throw himself in front of any ball in hope his team does not concede a goal.

We will likely have to wait until the eleventh hour of the window to see what Wenger decides to do.