Why Wolves must beat Arsenal to the £16m signing of this World Cup runner-up

Domagoj Vida is being eyed by Aston Villa (Getty Images)

Why Wolves must beat Arsenal to sign Domagoj Vida

According to Birmingham Mail, Premier League clubs Wolverhampton Wanderers and Arsenal are set to fight for the signature of Croatian World Cup runner-up centre-back Domagoj Vida from Besiktas in Turkey. It is suggested that Wolves manager Nuno Espirito Santo might be prepared to put in a £16m bid for the player to test the resolve of the Turkish club.

Birmingham Mail further states that it is good news for Wolves because they are leading the race for Vida, as they have contacted the Turkish club and Besiktas president Eikret Orman will be heading to the UK to hold talks with the Molineux officials.

And for what it’s worth, it will be a fantastic move by Nuno and his men to get a high-class defender. They have already done some very good businesses this summer, and signing Vida will be a perfect icing on the cake.

So, here’s why Wolves must beat Arsenal to sign the Croatian centre-back:

Vida will suit the way Wolves play

Vida has played for Besiktas and Croatia, who don’t function in a high defensive line. The 29-year-old is comfortable in defending from the half-back area and aerially dominate centre-forwards even though his height isn’t that of a natural centre-back.

Domagoj Vida

At Wolves, Nuno plays the 3-4-3 system with a high press but not a ludicrously forward-thinking defensive line. Hence, Vida can be an integral part of the back-three as he has the abilities to command his area and defend according to the situation when required, also playing passing football to structure a move forward from the back.

The good thing is the lower block of the defensive line, which allows him to play a sweeper role in the middle of the back-three.

It would be a bit contradictory if the Croat gets a move to Arsenal. This is because Unai Emery plays a higher line with an intensive footballing system which may not suit the player. So tactically, Vida will be a hit at the Molineux Stadium.

Verdict

Wolves already have a decent defence which can handle the demands of the Premier League. But to get a World Cup runner-up will further enhance the quality and give them confidence, having bought some high-class players this summer.

Mizgan Masani

A football enthusiast, who loves to analyse the game in depth. Following various leagues and knowing about the playing styles of different managers intrigues me to the core. Other than that, I am an Electronics Engineer! Follow me @mizgans