Arsenal ‘explored’ signing of defender and ex-Premier League man assesses their title chances

Arsenal will be itching to return to Premier League action.

The Gunners are top of the table and have only lost once so far in the league this term.

They take on rivals Tottenham Hotspur this weekend in the North London derby.

Here is a look at some of the latest news coming out of the club...

Defender was on radar

Arsenal reportedly looked into the potential signing of Villarreal defender Pau Torres over the summer.

The centre-back was also said to be on the radar of fellow top flight clubs Chelsea and Arsenal.

Reporter Fabrizio Romano has said in his CaughtOffside column: “Chelsea, Arsenal and Tottenham also explored this possibility but didn’t want to spend €40-45m.

“I think it’s a very good opportunity on the market; he has experience, quality, left footed … a very good CB.”

Former Premier League man on Arsenal’s title chances

Former Premier League defender Glen Johnson doesn’t think the Gunners have the squad to mount a serious title charge this season.

Mikel Arteta’s side have made an impressive start to the new campaign.

However, Johnson believes they might run out of steam and has said, as per the Express:

“I don’t think they’ll have the squad or the character to sustain a proper title challenge until the end. I think they will for a while, but it’s so tough to do that across a whole season.”

Youngster impresses on international duty

Arsenal youngster Charlie Patino caught the eye playing for England U20s over the weekend.

He scored as the Three Lions beat Morocco 2-1.

The midfieldr is currently on loan with Championship side Blackpool to gain experience.