Arsenal are reportedly in pursuit of Schalke’s defender Sead Kolasinac as the Bosnian international’s contract runs out this summer.

• Left-back could be Nacho Monreal replacement
• Has 7 assists and 3 goals this season
• Will be free in the summer

The 23-year-old was close to joining Chelsea in January, but their bid of £5.3m was rejected by Schalke. There was also interest from Manchester City, Juventus and Liverpool but none managed to seal the deal.

Arsenal were also one of the interested parties in January, and have continued to make further contact as they see the Bosnian as part of the solution to Arsenal’s defensive performances which continue to be flawed. Many saw Arsenal’s full back’s as the weakest part of the team in the recent defeat at Crystal Palace.

Sead Kolasinac plays as a left-back for Schalke and has 31 appearances this season in all competitions having scored 3 goals and made 7 assists in the process.

His defensive numbers in Bundesliga (per match):

• Tackles won 2.1
• Interceptions 3.3
• Arial duels won 1.95
• Squawka defence score total 306.59

Even though his natural position is left-back, he’s equally adept at centre-back, or in left midfield.

If Arsenal were to bring him in, the obvious competitor for a first team place would be Nacho Monreal as both players are pretty similar in terms of skill and quality.

In recent weeks, Manchester City were firm favourites for his signarure, but with Arsenal stepping up their game in negotiations, it’s yet unclear who will prevail.

Sead Kolasinac could be one of the cheapest deals this summer for Arsenal but could also prove to be one of the most significant. A back line is responsible for the stability of the whole team and is the main foundation of any attacking moves.

If a team wants to be competitive and push for trophies, the attacking players need to have confidence in the men behind them to watch their back, in order that they may fully express their creativity going forward.