In a pre-match conference before Borussia’s Dortmund’s match this weekend with Bayern Munich, reported Arsenal target Neven Subotić discussed his admiration for the Premier League.

The 26-year-old Serbian centre back, who reaches the last year of his contract with Borussia Dortmund this summer, discussed the physicality of the Premier League, claiming “The game in England is tougher, more aggressive and more physical — in a sportsmanlike sense. As a centre-back I don’t always want to fear just touching an opponent.”

Dortmund are unlikely to allow the player to reach the final year of his contract, so we should expect to see a deal offered this summer, or an offer accepted for him.

While Subotić was a key part of the Dortmund side that won back-to-back Bundesliga titles, and reached the Champion’s League Final in 2013, he has struggled for games over the last two seasons, suffering knee injuries.

This season he has played 22 games for the German side, scoring once.

Dortmund's goalkeeper Roman Weidenfeller (R) and Dortmund's Serbian defender Neven Subotic celebrate
Dortmund’s goalkeeper Roman Weidenfeller (R) and Dortmund’s Serbian defender Neven Subotic celebrate after the German first division Bundesliga football match Borussia Dortmund vs FC Schalke 04 in Dortmund, western Germany, on February 28, 2015. Dortmund wins 3-0. AFP PHOTO / PATRIK STOLLARZ DFL

With Arsenal spending approximately £11.3 million on 24-year-old Gabriel in January, could Arsene be tempted with a cut-price deal for another defender, as extra cover/a potential replacement for Per Mertesacker?

Reports also suggest that Arsenal have shown interest in Daniele Rugani, which does seem to indicate that the club are looking at strengthening their squad in central defence. Frankly this could only be a good thing, as it is an area where Arsenal are lacking cover.

Wenger is known to be a long-term admirer of the player, and with both Chelsea and Manchester United showing interest in the past, I think he could be a really useful addition to the Arsenal squad.

His ability to cope with the physicality of the more aggressive and hard-tackling Premier League would be exciting to see, but with his knee injuries there is a chance that he may not suit, despite how much he admires it.