Ex-Arsenal striker Smith doubts Fernandez transfer, questions Gunners' CB need

Former Arsenal striker Alan Smith has dismissed rumors linking Nigerian defender Emmanuel Fernandez to a summer move to Arsenal, stating he doesn't see why the Gunners need another centre-back. Smith specifically questioned Fernandez's readiness, noting his previous clubs were Spalding United on loan and Peterborough. 'I don't see why they'd need a centre-half anyway,' Smith told Scotman.

The 24-year-old Fernandez earned his first Super Eagles call-up and Scottish PFA Team of the Year honors after scoring six goals in 29 appearances for Rangers this season. His performances have attracted interest from Arsenal, Bayer Leverkusen, and Feyenoord, marking him as one of Nigeria's rising defensive talents.

Smith argued Arsenal already has sufficient cover with Jurrien Timber and Cristhian Mosquera capable of playing centre-back, suggesting internal options make external signings unnecessary. While acknowledging Fernandez's solid Scottish season, Smith questioned whether he can maintain that form at a higher level: 'Yes, he’s had a good season at Rangers, but who knows whether he can sustain that kind of form at a higher level.' Nigerian fans should weigh Smith's skepticism against Fernandez's actual stats and Arsenal's current squad depth when evaluating transfer rumors.

SOURCE: https://dailypost.ng/2026/05/02/epl-alan-smith-speaks-on-super-eagles-fernandezs-move-to-arsenal/