Latest developments
- Arsenal want to sign Tyrick Mitchell from Crystal Palace.
- The full-back has piqued the interest of many clubs, including Tottenham.
- The Gunners have issues at left-back going into January.
Whisper+ analysis
Authenticity (2.5/5): Many interested parties
Arsenal are preparing to outbid their North London rivals Tottenham Hotspur for the signing of Crystal Palace left-back Tyrick Mitchell, who has also been attracting interest from Barcelona and Atletico Madrid.
That is the word of Caught Offside, who don't name their sources, but with Mitchell not committing his future to the Eagles, the rumour mill is on red alert.
Value (4/5): Palace running out of time
Mitchell not signing a new contract at Selhurst Park is a big problem for Palace, who are set to lose him for free in the summer when his current deal expires.
In order to cash in, they will have to set an asking price close to market valuation of £20.75 million – a bargain for the Gunners – but a bidding war is sure to drive that price up.
Suitability (4/5): Confident, international full-back
His only two England caps may have come nearly three years ago, but no one is denying that the now 25-year-old was good enough to step up onto the international stage.
That is thanks to his consistent performances in the Premier League, which have not waned despite Palace's form being up-and-down across 2024.
Upgrade? (3.5/5): Gunners having problems at LB
Oleksandr Zinchenko's defensive frailties have been exposed of late, while Kieran Tierney is set to leave for Celtic and new signing Riccardo Calafiori has been hit by persistent injuries.
When Calafiori is fit, Mitchell might struggle to start regularly, but his consistency will be a big help to Arsenal who have been having a headache at left-back this season.
Logic (4/5): Ready for next challenge
Refusing to sign a new deal suggests Mitchell believes now is the right time to make the step up to one of the game's elite. Issues in his position plus a familiar league will make Arsenal an attractive proposition.
Arsenal might be put off the multi-club tussle, having paid good money for Calafiori recently, but losing Tierney could force their hand.
Whisper+ verdict: 18/25
Arsenal are very much the right club for Mitchell, it might just be a question of how desperate Arsenal are to sign another left-back right now… and to deny Spurs!
