It was made clear that a centre-back is a very important option in modern football as it was shown a couple of years ago when Barcelona and Manchester United were fighting for the signature of Thomas Vermaelen, an injury prone player. Fast forward to years later, a lot as not really changed and it’s funny how unknown players in such role are commanding fees upwards of £30million.
Hence, it’s surprising that a 27-year-old defender with four years of Premier League experience, 28 national appearances for France national team, a former Paris Saint-Germain captain, is up for transfer a give away price. Let’s look at three clubs in the EPL who could make use of Mamadou Sakho in their ranks.
Arsenal
The Gunners have been impressive in newly starting lineup comprising of 3 man backline. Also, this means Arsene Wenger’s side need more defensive reinforcements considering how their centre-halves have been battling with injuries and loss of form last season. They depended so much on Nacho Montreal, the club first choice left-back, had to switch to a central defensive role on a number of occasions. Gabriel Paulista has been inconsistent and age is not on Per Mertesacker’s side.
This leaves Arsenal with only 3 first team center-backs i.e. Laurent Koscielny, Shkodran Mustafi, and 21-year-old Rob Holding. It would be a grave mistake to head into a season having Thursday night football, with only 3 reliable central defenders. Sanyo, with his Premier League experience will be an amazing fit to this team. Also, signing a low key centra back will ensure that the growth of the outstanding Rob Holding is not affected.
The Frenchman connection should help him connect easily with his compatriot, who is keen on leading Arsenal to the first title win in more than a decade.
West Ham United
West Ham United has been trying hard to compete with top sides in the table for some time and some smart signings would go a long way in helping them do that. With Fonte and Collins in their 30s, and Ogbonna’s injury issues, signing Mamadou Sakho would be the best thing since slice bread.
Known for his hardball dealings and sharp signings, the Hammers boss David Sullivan should grab the chance of to sign the Liverpool forgotten man.
Crystal Palace
It’s somehow crazy the Eagles haven’t signed Sakho yet. The Frenchman along with Benteke and Zaha were the three musketeers who drove them to safety from the relegation zone. He looked settled during his tenure at Selhurst Park and seemed comfortable alongside his Palace teammates too.
Crystal Palace have already flaunt their wealth by splashing out the money on Christian Benteke. Hence it only makes sense for the Eagles to sign the man who drove them to safety from the perils of relegation.