After being linked heavily with the likes of Arsenal and Napoli, Bernd Leno today penned a deal with the Gunners. He signed for after the club learned of his €22M buy out clause. He becomes Unai Emery’s second confirmed signing.
Bernd Leno Signs Contract with Arsenal
Key to the Gunners’ Success?
Widely seen as a successor to Petr Cech, Bernd Leno will have a lot to do at the Emirates. After a trying season, Arsenal need to shore up their defences and surely will do so with Leno on their books.
He became only the third goalkeeper in Bundesliga history to keep a clean sheet in his first three games. Bernd Leno also became the youngest stopper in Champions League history, after making his debut against Chelsea in 2011. Leno kept 10 clean sheets out of 33 appearances for Leverkusen last term, only one less than Petr Cech.
Leno will be instrumental in Arsenal’s push for silverware this season and for Champions League football the next. Cech is nearly 10 years older than the German and is in the twilight of a decorated career.
Part of a Revamp?
The signing of Bernd Leno suggests that the Arsenal backroom staff are looking to revitalise the squad and make a real impact for the start of next season. The board see this as a double victory, not only have they been able to sign a much-needed player, they have also managed to fend off interest from Napoli and Atletico Madrid.
Adding to the signings of Lichtsteiner, this sends a message that they are still very much a force in the market, and a draw for top players. Arsenal fans will be hoping that this is one in a string of additions by the new manager. Whether Emery will sell Cech or Ospina remains to be seen.
Interesting Times Ahead at Arsenal
Whatever the rest of the summer brings, the latest transfer in north London is exciting and will be a prospect in between the sticks at the Emirates. After a disappointing end to the legacy of Arsène Wenger, there is a lot of ground to be made up for the Gunners.
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