5 players Unai Emery should target to revitalise Arsenal

A new era is going to commence at the Emirates now that long-time manager Arsene Wenger has left the club. New manager Unai Emery faces the daunting task of lifting the club after a sixth-place finish last year.

The Spaniard has the responsibility to haul an ageing and underperforming squad, especially in the defensive department. The midfield also poses a conundrum, as Arsenal desperately lack the dominating presence at the centre of the park.

Emery's task is immense, however, he will hope to make an impact and Arsenal don't suffer from a Wenger hangover. He needs to recruit new members to do the same. Here are 5 possible options for him to revitalise Arsenal.

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#5 Sime Vrsaljko (Atletico Madrid)

Vrsaljko can make the move to London

Vrsaljko was signed by Atletico in 2016 but he was more of a backup to Juanfran rather than competing for a starting role. He has impressed for Diego Simeone when he has played, contributing in Juanfran's absence.

However, the Croatian has no guarantee of playing time in Madrid, as Thomas Partey has also filled in at the full-back spot a couple of times. Arsenal's current right-back Hector Bellerin has not been consistent and Vrsaljko can be hopeful of nicking his spot.

At Arsenal, he can get an upgrade on his wages and more playing time as well. He is stronger defensively compared to Bellerin and his attacking input isn't bad as well. Certainly a move worth considering for Unai Emery.

#4 Jean-Michael Seri (Nice)

Seri has caught the eye of many clubs

Seri has been courted by many clubs in the last year or so but his future is still undecided. He has impressed for Nice over the past three seasons in Ligue 1 and deserves the current attention he is getting.

The Ivory Coast international is a sterling presence in midfield who makes an impact on both ends of the field. Seri recorded two goals and five assists last season but his contributions go beyond them. He can provide the bite in midfield for Arsenal who have sorely lacked it last season.

Granit Xhaka and Jack Wilshere tried their best but their qualities are more attack-minded so Seri could be a welcome addition. Numerous clubs are after the Nice man so Arsenal will have their work cut out to sign him. However, his addition will definitely be worth the efforts.

#3 Bernd Leno (Bayer Leverkusen)

Leno has established himself as one of the best keepers in Germany

Arsenal's current first-choice goalkeeper is veteran Petr Cech and his performances have dipped considerably compared to his heyday at Chelsea. Understudy David Ospina is a solid performer but not quite at the level of some of the league's elite goalkeepers.

The Gunners have the pressing need to invest in goal and Bernd Leno could satiate the need. Leno has been the first choice keeper at Bayer for seven years and he has consistently impressed.

Arsenal need stability in goal to improve a subpar defence and Leno would provide that admirably. Furthermore, the German contingent at the Emirates would help him settle in.

Leverkusen recently signed goalkeeper Lukas Hradecky from Frankfurt, which suggests that the club are perhaps preparing for Leno's departure. Right time for the Gunners to pounce.

#2 Kalidou Koulibaly (Napoli)

Koulibaly has excelled in Naples

Koulibaly has established himself as one of Europe's finest centre-backs after some impressive seasons at Napoli. He was a key member as his side almost pipped Juventus to the league title only to fall short at the end.

The Senegalese excelled in coach Maurizio Sarri's possession-based system and he can carry that to the Emirates where those qualities will be appreciated. His pace, strength, and composure on the ball have many clubs circling and Arsenal would love to beat them to him.

Arsenal have longed for a stable partner alongside stalwart Laurent Koscielny over the years and they would get that in Koulibaly. Furthermore, Koscielny is currently injured which makes the need to sign an experienced centre-back all the more crucial.

#1 Caglar Soyuncu (Freiburg)

Soyuncu is one of Bundesliga's brightest prospects

Arsenal have a history of developing young talent over the years and Caglar Soyuncu can be the next project. The Turkish international has impressed for Freiburg in the Bundesliga and has clawed his way into his national team as well.

Soyuncu, who turned 22 in May, made 31 club appearances last season and is seen as one of the bright prospects in Germany. Freiburg are reportedly holding out for more than €30 million for their man, a sum which will make Arsenal think twice.

However considering his age and future potential, Soyuncu could turn out to be a shrewd investment for the Gunners.