Arsenal and Manchester United are now among the clubs interested in signing the “exciting” French defender, who can also play in midfield.
Gunners aim to strengthen defensive options
The Gunners currently sit top of the Premier League and appear to be in a strong position to end their long wait for the title, with much of their success can be attributed to their very impressive defensive record in the early stages of the campaign.
Mikel Arteta’s side have conceded just three goals in their opening seven games, the lowest of any team in the top flight, with William Saliba and Gabriel continuing to form a solid partnership at the heart of defence.
The North Londoners strengthened their options at the back with the signing of Cristian Mosquera from Valencia during the summer transfer window. And the 21-year-old has featured fairly regularly so far this season, making eight appearances in all competitions.
Given that Arteta is already well-rounded defensively, it may be surprising to learn that Arsenal are eyeing another centre-back, who has attracted interest from some of Europe’s top clubs.
This comes as Caught Offside reports that the Gunners are currently one of the leading clubs to track FC Nantes defender Tyrell Tatty, along with Premier League rivals Manchester United, with both clubs reportedly sending scouts to keep an eye on him.
However, there could be fierce competition for Tati, with Tottenham Hotspur, Liverpool and Aston Villa also mentioned as candidates, with interest from overseas including Barcelona, RB Leipzig and Bayer Leverkusen.
The widespread interest in the 17-year-old may stem from his ability to play in multiple positions, with reports suggesting he is capable of playing at left-back as well as defensive midfield.
‘Exciting’ Tati could be a great long-term addition for Arsenal
Scout Jacek Kulig has named the youngster as one of the most “exciting” France Under-21 centre-backs, and it’s easy to see why, given that he has already established himself as a regular in Nantes’ first team.
The starlet has made six appearances in Ligue 1 so far this season, an impressive feat considering he only turned 17 earlier this year, and underlines that the Nantes ace could be ready to make the step up to the Premier League soon.
Perhaps the Frenchman’s toughest test to date came in his debut match against Paris Saint-Germain, but after the match, despite Nantes losing 1-0, manager Luis Castro singled out and praised him, saying: “He had a very good game. Calm and focused, not bad for a 17-year-old.”
With the likes of Saliba, Gabriel, Mosquela and Piero Hincapie in the squad, there is no immediate need to bring in a new centre-back, but Tati could be a great long-term addition and his versatility is an added bonus.
