Troost-Ekong and Africans who could replace Luiz at Arsenal

The defender will be ending his two-year stay with Arsenal at the end of the 2020-21 season, having joined the club from Premier League rivals, Chelsea, in the summer of 2019.

The 34-year-old helped the club to win the FA Cup and Community Shield during his time at the Emirates Stadium.

Gunners boss Mikel Arteta has already expressed his ‘sadness’ with the impending departure of the Brazil international and Goal looks at African stars who the Spanish tactician could recruit in the summer.

The Nigeria international has proven his worth in Serie A with Udinese and recently helped Watford gain promotion to the Premier League.

The defender played consistently for the Hornets in the current campaign, featuring in 32 games to help them achieve the feat.

He is also a key performer for the Nigeria national team and played a key role as the Super Eagles qualified for the 2022 Africa Cup of Nations in Cameroon.

He is superb in the air, his speed, quick reaction, winning balls have also distinguished him among his contemporaries.

Having quickly adopted to life at Vicarage Road, there is no doubt he will be a good addition to Mikel Arteta’s side.

The Senegal international is regarded as one of the best defenders in Europe and has been linked with many Premier League clubs, including Manchester United and Manchester City.

Koulibaly’s solid defensive performances for Napoli have marked him out for excellence and in the 2020-21 season, he has been one of the shining stars for Gennaro Gattuso.

The 29-year-old will be a good replacement for Luiz and could help Arsenal end their Premier League title drought next season.

The Ivory Coast international could also be a replacement for Luiz and will not struggle to adapt at the club, given his experience in the Premier League.

Boly has been part of Wolverhampton Wanderers’ campaign this season, featuring in 21 games, including 19 games in the English top-flight.

He has been in the Premier League since 2017 when he joined Wolves, initially on loan before his solid defensive displays earned him a permanent deal.

The Democratic Republic of the Congo international is one of the best African players in the Portuguese Primeira Liga this season.

The 26-year-old has been key to Porto’s progress this season, featuring in more than 40 games across all competitions.

Mbemba is no stranger to the Premier League, having previously featured for Newcastle United, where he spent three years and should adapt seamlessly at Emirates Stadium.

The 25-year-old has been turning heads in Ligue 1 this season for Rennes helping the club to move closer to securing a Europa League ticket.

Aguerd has been consistent for Bruno Genesio’s men this season, playing 39 games across all competitions, including 34 in the French top-flight.

The Morocco international also has three goals to his credit and although he has spent most of his career in France, he should be a good addition to the Gunners.