Bright Arrey-Mbi Back Under Consideration
With pre-season underway, Nuno Espírito Santo has already begun evaluating his squad, and further departures are anticipated. Defensive versatility is a priority, as I wrote about yesterday, particularly with potential exits at centre-back, and Nuno is keen to secure adequate cover.
Gonzo has already mentioned Bright Arrey-Mbi, who by now is a familiar name. Long-tracked by the club and represented by none other than Jorge Mendes, the Braga defender has resurfaced as a target. Portuguese sources indicate the club would consider a sale.
His ability to play multiple roles across the left side of defence is a major attraction. Although Braga inserted a €50m release clause, they signed him for just €6.24m in 2024 and are reportedly open to realistic offers. Now 23, Arrey-Mbi’s career has taken him from Norwich and Chelsea to Bayern Munich, FC Köln and Hannover 96. He has made a total of 74 appearances for Braga.
Injury Record Raises Doubts
The issue, beyond the release clause, is his injury history, which is exactly why this move feels unrealistic. The defender missed eight games near the end of last season, picking up an injury in April. There’s no confirmed return date and no detailed information on the nature of his latest setback. He also missed a further 58 days in 2024/25, reinforcing the pattern that makes this transfer hard to envisage.
With Nils Koppen driving a broad recruitment search, the club will cast their net further, and a long list of centre-back targets is already being assembled, covering profiles in Belgium, Denmark, the Netherlands, France, and Scandinavia.
More Defensive Targets Expected
It is expected that offers will go in for some targets as early as next week.
If he has been at all of those clubs and has been moved on, what does that tell us about him?
Let’s keep away from injury prone players
Let’s keep away from injury prone players