The Arsenal target who could replace Bacary Sagna
With Arsenal failing to agree new terms with first choice right back Bacary Sagna, the club are turning their attentions elsewhere as the January transfer window approaching. One player who could fill the void is Udinese's Dusan Basta. Here's a little bit about him...
Name: Dusan Basta
Date of birth: 18 August 1984
Birthplace: Belgrade, SFR Yugoslavia
Club: Udinese
Position: Right back/Wing back
International appearances: Serbia (5 caps)
What's the latest?
With question marks surrounding the long term future of first choice Arsenal right back Bacary Sagna, Gunners boss Arsene Wenger is believed to be scouting a number of players to replace the Frenchman. Latest reports claim that Basta is one of the names on Wenger's shortlist, and that they could move for the 28-year-old as early as January.
Did you know?
1) Basta started playing football aged eight for local side Padinska Skela, prior to to joining Red Star Belgrade aged 13.
2) Despite originally starting out as a right midfielder, Basta has been increasingly used as a right back, a position he has proved adept in. His versatility to play anywhere along the right flank saw him bag five goals last season, while he has scored twice already this campaign.
3) Basta has also been noted for his goal scoring ability. His most prolific season came during a loan spell to Jedinstvo Ub, where he scored seven in 26 appearances. Despite being frequently used in a deeper role at Udinese, Basta has a tendency to run on the overlap and has a deadly right foot, as can be seen below.
4) The Serbian international is valued at around £5m, but it is thought that Arsenal would be able to sign him for significantly less.
5) Basta gave Udinese an early lead in their Champions League play-off fixture against Portuguese side Braga. The aggregate score ended 2-2, but Udinese lost the subsequent penalty shoot-out 5-4.
Video evidence
Basta showing that he can score from anywhere.
Would Dusan Basta be a good fit for Arsenal? Should the Gunners nurture Carl Jenkinson or bring in a more established player? Have your say on the topic by commenting below...