Arsenal ‘absolutely want to keep’ player – January move ‘very unrealistic’ amid firm interest

Bayern Munich have Arsenal’s Takehiro Tomiyasu on their transfer agenda, according to Sky Deutschland.

The Bundesliga winners are aiming to strengthen their defence in January and have a few names on their list, including that of the 25-year-old.

Their interest in the Arsenal player isn’t new as the Bavarian club had looked at him in the last window.

In fact, Sky transfer expert Florian Plettenberg claims he was a ‘very hot’ target in the summer. After failing to secure his services, the journalist adds Bayern would like to ‘get him immediately’ in the winter market.

The Japan international has made 17 appearances this season, mainly as a substitute. His preferred position is on the right side of defence but Mikel Arteta has mainly used him as a left-back this season.

Despite Tomiyasu’s backup role and Bayern’s interest, a transfer seems ‘very unrealistic’. That’s because Sky insist Arsenal ‘absolutely want to keep him’, due to limited options in the fullback positions.

The Gunners’ firm stance hasn’t put off Thomas Tuchel’s side as they continue to have the player on their list, just in case the door opens for them to sign him.