Arsenal Transfer News: Mathieu Debuchy Wanted by Juventus, Nelson Semedo Rumours

Arsenal's Mathieu Debuchy is reportedly a target for Serie A giants Juventus. That's according to Football Italia, via the Mirror's Aaron Flanagan. Flanagan notes they are seeking to replace Stephan Lichtsteiner, who could be absent for up to six months following heart surgery.

The Frenchman has only just begun his second campaign with the Gunners after moving from Newcastle United, but after several lengthy spells on the sidelines in his debut season due to injury, he has firmly lost his place to the emerging Hector Bellerin.

As OptaJoe and WhoScored.com demonstrate, the 30-year-old was one of the standout full-backs in the league prior to his injury problems, illustrating manager Arsene Wenger's thinking in signing him:

However, Debuchy has made just one Premier League appearance this season, with Wenger opting instead for the young Spaniard, who filled in with aplomb last year.

Jon Super/Associated Press

Bleacher Report Arsenal correspondent James McNicholas notes that Bellerin is currently ahead in the pecking order, as he provides the team with "width, balance and attacking threat." However Debuchy is a strong alternative, as he "is the superior defender" and naturally offers more "defensive solidity."

Indeed, as McNicholas reports, according to Squawka, the Frenchman won 48 percent of his attempted tackles last season and an outstanding 75 percent of his aerial battles.

According to L'Equipe (h/t Jamie Sanderson of Metro), Debuchy admitted his disappointment at losing his place to Bellerin but vowed to fight for his place in the side:

"

It is difficult.

Even if I had not played a lot last season, in my head I would return to start after my recovery. But, at the Community Shield against Chelsea, Wenger chose him, Bellerin.

It was a surprise and a disappointment. Let’s say it crossed my mind (leaving). But I want to be at Arsenal and to take my place.

"

However, a club of Juventus' stature could prove tempting for the France international, and the prospect of more first-team football will be enticing ahead of the 2016 European Championship.

Arsenal would be wise to keep hold of Debuchy, as his experience and defensive capabilities make him an excellent alternative to the gung-ho Bellerin, but equally, those skills could be put to good use by the Old Lady, or indeed plenty of other sides, so a January move could well be on the cards.

Should he depart, the Gunners may have lined up a replacement for him in the form of Nelson Semedo, according to Calciomercato (h/t Metro's Tom Olver).

Arsenal are apparently "monitoring" the right-back, who scored twice and laid on five assists for Benfica B last season. Here are some of the 21-year-old's highlights:

The Portuguese defender has little experience, having made only 10 senior appearances for Benfica, but looks to be of a similar mould to Bellerin, marauding forward with pace and impressive dribbling.

Semedo is clearly still a raw talent in need of refining, but he could make a useful signing for the Gunners if Debuchy leaves.

Debuchy provides vital experience, though, so once he returns to full fitness, he would likely make a stronger alternative than Semedo should he remain at the Emirates.