Werder Bremen coach Thomas Schaaf has tipped centreback Naldo (full name Ronaldo Aparecido Rodrigues) to join Premier League big boys Arsenal. The 26-year-old Brazilian international moved to the Bundesliga in 2005 having made his initial steps as a professional with Juventude but has since gone on to earn the nickname 'the beast' for his imposing 6ft 5inch frame.
Known for his cannon-ball free-kicks and solidity at the back interest has risen across Europe following his role in the German side’s impressive run to the UEFA Cup final. Naldo even got on the scoresheet in the showpiece final but couldn’t prevent Ukrainian side Shakhtar Donetsk taking the title.
Speaking to a club insider, coach Schaaf tipped Naldo to reach the top:
"Naldo is a great athlete and could do well at the right club, unfortunately he doesn't fit the direction we're planning to move in any longer.
"We expect to move him for somewhere in the region of €10 million, and English side Arsenal is as of now the most likely destination."
Arsenal have already signed Belgian international Thomas Vermaelen as they look to boost their defensive options, but with clouds hanging over the future of Kolo Toure, William Gallas, Mikael Silvestre and Philippe Senderos it appears Arsene Wenger could once again dip into the market for a centre-half.