Arsenal interested in Lille defender Alexsandro Ribeiro | OneFootball

Arsenal have ‘made initial contact’ to sign Lille defender Alexsandro Ribeiro, according to UOL,

The 25-year-old was one of the better defenders in Ligue 1 last season. He helped Lille keep 10 clean sheets as they finished fifth in the standings.

He is an excellent two-footed defender and thrives on the ball. He would be perfect for Mikel Arteta’s system at Arsenal.

Alexsandro received his first call-up to the Brazilian national team under Carlo Ancelotti and made his mark with two excellent performances.

He helped keep a clean sheet and won all of his five duels against Ecuador, marshalling the backline with assuredness and composure.

Arsenal’s scouts witnessed another solid showing against Paraguay. He won seven of his 12 duels and caught the eye.

Alexsandro could provide back-up to Gabriel Magalhaes, whom Arsenal also purchased from Lille. He can also serve as an alternative to Real Madrid target William Saliba.

Arsenal need to focus on bolstering their attack

Much of Arsenal’s funds have been directed towards signing midfielders and defenders, while the club is crying out for difference-makers in attack.

Alexsandro is a fantastic defender, but defence is not the issue holding this Arsenal team back. They need attacking reinforcements.

The Gunners desperately need to sign a marquee winger and a lethal centre-forward. Every other move should be on the back burner until they add firepower up top.