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Arsenal backed to take ‘gamble’ by completing signing of Italy international
DANIELE RUGANI would be a “gamble” signing for Arsenal but he would improve them defensively, claims Liverpool legend Steve Nicol.
Arsenal: Daniele Rugani a 'good gamble' says Steve Nicol
Rugani has emerged as a target for Arsenal following the arrival of Matthijs de Ligt at Juventus.
The 24-year-old Italy international made just 15 Serie A appearances for Juve last season.
And with De Ligt joining from Ajax, Rugani is likely to play even less football in Turin this term.
Nicol admits experienced Juventus duo Leonardo Bonucci and Giorgio Chiellini are coming towards the end of their careers.
I guess, at the end of the day, Rugani is a gamble. But it’s a good gamble
He says Rugani could hang around until one, or both of them, either leaves the club or retires.
But Nicol reckons Arsenal should take a risk in trying to sign Rugani in order to fix their leaky defence.
“Arsenal no question need help at centre-back,” Nicol told ESPN FC.
“The worry for me is Rugani has not even had a shout really in my opinion at Juventus.
Juventus: Daniele Rugani scores stunning header against Chievo
“You’ve got Bonucci and Chellini who are right at the end of their careers.
“If Rugani thinks that he can play there, he’s going to hang around for 12 months.
“I don’t see the two of them lasting much longer.
“He probably is [better than what Arsenal have] but he’s 24 and he hasn’t had a lot of football in the last couple of seasons.
“They’re in a position where they have to gamble.
“They can’t afford to go out and sign a recognised centre-back and spend a lot of money on them.
“I guess, at the end of the day, Rugani is a gamble. But it’s a good gamble.
“He’s going to be a hit [if he joins Arsenal].”