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‘He’s one of the best’ - Arsenal told to snap up free agent and hijack Crystal Palace deal
ARSENAL have been told to hijack Crystal Palace’s move for former Chelsea defender Gary Cahill, as he would be the ideal man to fix their defensive problems.
Arsenal and Man United should bid for Gary Cahill says pundit
Former Tottenham striker Darren Bent believes the Gunners should make a move for the 33-year-old.
Cahill left Chelsea at the end of last season after seven years at the Blues.
Since leaving Stamford Bridge, he has been in negotiations with a host of clubs to decide where he will play next season.
Arsenal were linked with a move for the defender back in January, but subsequently opted against a bid.
Now that he is a free agent, however, it is possible that the gunners will see him as a cheap solution to their problems at the back.
Last season they conceded 51 goals in the Premier League, and have been trying to improve their defence this transfer window with a move for Kieran Tierney.
However, with Laurent Koscielny expected to leave for Bordeaux, Arsenal will need some more help in the centre of defence.
And Bent believes that Cahill - who won two Premier League titles with Chelsea and three European trophies - would be the ideal option.
“It’s quite surprising not more people have moved for him, even someone like an Arsenal,” he said.
“As a defender, as an out-and-out defender, he’s good Cahill, he’s one of the best.
“He’s experienced, he’s won the biggest trophies in the game – Champions League, Europa League – played for England.
“He’s slightly older, maybe that’s the reason.”
Gary Cahill joins Chelsea for training ahead of final game
The defender has been heavily linked with a two-year deal at Crystal Palace.
According to a report in The Sun today, Roy Hodgson’s side are leading the way for Cahill, who will reportedly earn £75,000-per-week at Selhurst Park.
Cahill is apparently keen to stay in London, having received offers outside of the capital.