EXCLUSIVE
Arsenal had a scout in attendance at Stamford Bridge on Wednesday night to watch Chelsea play Manchester City, Goal understands.
The Gunners have scouts across the world who regularly send reports back to Arsene Wenger and his scouting team, but it is of particular note that one was present in south-west London to witness the title favourites edge past Pep Guardiola’s side.
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It’s considered common practice for the Gunners to cover big games in the Premier League and abroad with France-based scout and former Arsenal defender Gilles Grimandi spotted at Monaco’s Stade Louis II stadium several times this season casting an eye over Ligue 1’s most exciting attacking team.
Although there is no indication as to which player in particular the scout would have focused on - with the Gunners set to face City in an FA Cup semi-final in two weeks - defence remains a priority for Arsenal and is an area where the club are looking to strengthen in ahead of next season.
Wenger himself remains heavily involved in the planning and preparation for the summer’s transfer activities and chief transfer fixer Dick Law continues to hold talks with agents and members of the current playing staff over new contract extensions.
When asked if he was getting ready for Arsenal’s pre-season, Wenger replied: “Of course. My job is to plan for the future of the club.”
WHO WAS THE PLAYER ARSENAL WERE SCOUTING ON WEDNESDAY NIGHT?
Kurt Zouma - The Ivorian defender has been tracked by Arsenal since his days with French side St Etienne. Armed with excellent aerial abilities and brute upper body strength, Zouma would be the perfect fit alongside Shkodran Mustafi or Laurent Koscielny as the latter comes to the final stage of his Gunners career.
It would take a huge offer to land the 22-year-old centre back but stranger things have happened. The William Gallas deal in 2006, which saw Ashley Cole go the other way, is an example that both clubs will do business together.
Getty Images
Getty Images
Vincent Kompany - There is also the possibility of Arsenal being tipped off about the Belgian defender starting his first game since November on Tuesday night.
Kompany has suffered an injury-plagued season at the Etihad, having made just six appearances across all competitions but despite his injury issues, Kompany possesses an array of defensive qualities which could tempt Wenger to sign him from a club where it appears his days are numbered.
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