Should Arsenal eye a bargain deal for centre-back Winston Reid?

Winston Reid

With Arsenal said to be keen on recruiting a new centre-back in the coming January transfer window, the Daily Mail reports that West Ham United’s Winston Reid is wanted by Arsene Wenger, for around £6million. But would the New Zealand international prove a worthwhile addition to the Gunners’ backline?

Since signing for West Ham back in 2010, Reid has grown into one of the league’s most consistent defenders. And, with a Performance Score of 272 points so far this season, he is West Ham’s best player so far this term, helping the Hammers concede just eight goals, giving them the league’s fourth-best defensive record.

West Ham – Top Performance Scorers

Twenty-five-year-old Reid has been a true leader at the back for the Hammers, proving a mature influence for club as he does for his country, for whom he wears the captain’s armband. This season he has been a constant presence, playing the joint most minutes along with ‘keeper Jussi Jaaskelainen (810).

He leads the way for the club in all defensive actions except for successful tackles (he ranks second here), going on to rank fourth in the league for interceptions (24) and sixth for clearances (78). He is also strong in the air, using his 1.9 metre frame to win 63% of his headed duels. His good height would no doubt help Arsenal as they defend set pieces as well as attack them.

Top Four Premier League Interceptors

On the ball, the numbers don’t show him to be much of a ball-playing centre-back, as he has completed just 72% of his passes. But given Sam Allardyce’s long ball philosophy as well as the fact that the Hammers have been playing without a real focal point in attack for much of the season, the 72% shouldn’t be taken too seriously. Arsenal are a more cohesive unit in possession and boast the ideal target man up top in Olivier Giroud. However, Reid’s efficiency on the ball should improve in those more ideal circumstances.

The rumoured fee is £6 million, which would be a snip for one of the league’s more under-rated defenders. Big Sam recently voiced his concern about possibly losing Ravel Morrison to Manchester United. The youngster has come alive this season after finally leaving off-pitch issues behind him. Unfortunately for Allardyce there is yet more reason to worry as the Gunners circle Reid, who should prove a decent addition, should he sign.