Former Arsenal striker Alan Smith has cast doubt on reports linking Emmanuel Fernandez with a summer move to Arsenal, questioning both the need for defensive reinforcements and the player’s readiness for top-level competition.
Fernandez, who joined Rangers at the start of the season, has enjoyed a standout debut campaign in Scotland. The 24-year-old has exceeded expectations at Ibrox, establishing himself as a key figure in defence while also contributing goals.
His consistent performances earned him a first call-up to the Nigeria national team, as well as a place in the Scottish PFA Team of the Year. That recognition has reportedly attracted interest from several European clubs, including Arsenal, Bayer Leverkusen, and Feyenoord.
Despite the growing speculation, Smith remains unconvinced that a move to north London is realistic at this stage of Fernandez’s career. He questioned whether Arsenal even require additional options in central defence.
“I don’t see why they’d need a centre-half anyway,” Smith told Scotman, referencing Fernandez’s earlier career path, including spells at lower-tier clubs.
While acknowledging the defender’s strong form in Scotland, Smith also raised doubts about whether he could maintain such levels in a more demanding league.
“Yes, he’s had a good season at Rangers, but who knows whether he can sustain that kind of form at a higher level,” he added.
Smith further pointed to Arsenal’s current defensive depth as another reason a transfer may be unlikely, noting players such as Jurrien Timber and Cristhian Mosquera as existing options in central defence.
Fernandez has impressed this season for Rangers, registering six goals in 29 appearances across all competitions while playing a key role at both ends of the pitch.
