Arsenal Transfer Rumours: Matthias Ginter Would Be Underrated Pickup for Gunners

He's not Luis Suarez, but Arsenal target Matthias Ginter has the potential to be a big-time signing for the Gunners this summer.

According to the Mirror's Tom Hopkinson, Arsenal has plans to "step up the chase" for Matthias Ginter, who has starred for SC Freiburg's senior squad since 2012:

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Gunners boss Arsene Wenger has been tracking Ginter, 19, for some time and hopes the deal for Coquelin will work as a sweetener, as the North London side bid to fend off rival interest from Bundesliga side Borussia Dortmund.

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The German has loads of potential as an up-and-coming big league midfielder, but his play defensively is what has caught the eye of many, including Arsene Wenger.

It's certainly no secret that Arsenal is heading into the new season relatively slim at the back, where injuries to Thomas Vermaelen and Nacho Monreal have brought about serious depth issues on the Gunners back line.

Ginter appeared in several matches as a central defender last season in Germany, so there should be no doubt about his abilities to hold up in a similar role at Emirates.

Keep in mind that the 19-year-old only scored one goal in 23 league appearances with Freiburg this past season, so he's not going to be a player who will help Arsenal improve in the final third.

But at an estimated price of £5 million, Wenger doesn't need Ginter to score a dozen goals per season. 

First of all, he's still developing and adding to his game. Secondly, he appears better suited in a defensive role. That said, he could be used best as a defensive midfielder, where he could utilize all of his strengths.

Ginter's change of pace and overall versatility set him apart from your average defensive midfielder. Plus, he's a physical player and possesses the size to give opposing playmakers trouble. Wenger wouldn't have to worry about him getting outmuscled at the back or being comfortable enough to jump-start the attack from midfield, either.

While adding Ginter wouldn't help relieve the immense pressure Wenger currently finds himself under as this summer's transfer window begins to wind down, it would be something for Arsenal supporters to rally behind and get excited about, even if Ginter's impact isn't felt right away.

Ginter isn't going to provide Arsenal with the boost it needs to win the Premier League next season, but he's the type of target that could pay off for the Gunners down the road.

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