Man Utd, Arsenal among clubs hoping to sign Lille star
Manchester United and Arsenal have joined the race to sign Lille star Zeki Celik, according to reports.
The two Premier League sides are busy looking for reinforcements following the end of the 2020/21 campaign.
Mikel Arteta in particular is in desperate need of new signings to get Arsenal back into Europe next season.
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According to the Evening Standard, United and Arsenal’s search for new players has led them to 24-year-old Celik.
He’s a high-intensity right-back who will represent Turkey at this summer’s European Championship.
Celik put in some brilliant displays this season as Lille ended Paris Saint-Germain’s domestic dominance.
He made 29 Ligue 1 appearances, chipping in with three goals and three assists.
The player was originally scouted from Turkish side Istanbulspor and has adapted to the French league well.
The report states United and Arsenal are monitoring his situation ahead of a potential summer move.
They’re joined by Premier League rivals Tottenham in the hunt, alongside champions of Italy Inter Milan.
Celik is valued by Lille at around €15million (£13m). That makes him an affordable target in a time where clubs cannot spend big without risking debt.
United are searching for a right-back to provide competition for Aaron Wan-Bissaka. The Croydon-born defender remains their only first team option in the position, and could be improved by a new contender.
Celik is also wanted by Arsenal as they prepare for the departure of Hector Bellerin.
He’s been linked with Paris Saint-Germain and Juventus for years, but could finally secure an Emirates exit this year.
Arsenal might make a profit by selling him for £40million and bringing in Celik as his replacement.
North London rivals Tottenham are interested as they want to solve their issues on the right side of defence.
Serge Aurier doesn’t look like a long-term solution and is also keen on a return to France.
Their other option is Matt Doherty. The Republic of Ireland international is yet to reach the form which saw him gain plenty of admirers at Wolves.
Should Celik have a successful trip at this month’s Euros, then a big money move will be almost certain.