Arsenal have numerous problems in defence.

While their attack is among the best in the league, their defence is holding them back from being title contenders.

Arsenal have already conceded 31 times in 21 Premier League games, giving them the 11th best defence in the league.

It’s at the centre of defence where they are at their weakest.

Laurent Koscielny has been poor since returning from a long term injury, while Shkodran Mustafi has struggled since signing from Valencia.

Sokratis has been decent since signing from Dortmund, while Rob Holding has been ruled out for the season with a knee injury.

It is perhaps surprising that Unai Emery is not going all out to sign a defence this January.

With what little funds he has at his disposal, the Spanish manager is instead trying to sign a winger, with Denis Suarez expected to join on loan in the coming days.

However, a big reason why they don’t seem to be targeting a defender is Konstantinos Mavropanos.

The Greek defender returned to training last week after a five months lay off.

And, as per Goal, it seems the Arsenal coaching staff have a very high opinion of the young defender.

Chris Wheatley writes: “There is an increased belief among the Arsenal coaching staff that Mavropanos is ready to play in the first team and is in contention to be involved in senior games when he’s fully match fit.

“That should ease the burden on Sokratis, Shkodran Mustafi and Laurent Koscielny following the season-ending knee injury picked up by Rob Holding in December.”

Interesting stuff.

Mavropanos has played just three times for Arsenal, but impressed in the few appearances he made at the back end of last season.

However, even though he has been back in training for just a week, Emery and his coaching staff think he’s ready for first team action.

That will come as good news to Arsenal fans, who will be hoping that his return can solidify what is a suspect back four.

Should Emery start Mavropanos when he’s back to full fitness? Have your say by leaving a comment below.