As Mr Wenger and the Arsenal board seem slower than a London bus in rush hour on the uptake, I thought I would give them a gentle push, well more like a huge shoulder barge, into the transfer market. I will give them a few players I think would improve our team no end, with some attention to finding a healthy mix of talent, value and intangibles they bring to a club. Firstly, as in previous blogs, I have discussed the club’s main issues, which are most highlighted by the spine of the team. Therefore, I will address the following needs; a top class keeper, a centre back, holding midfielder and top-notch goal scorer. I figure we need 4 players…
Goal keeper:
Julio Cesar would be a great addition. He has played all over the world at the highest level, and there is no way he will stay at relegated QPR. A quality stopper, he commands the box and would be a good fit. At 33, he is in his prime.
Asmir Begovic has been immense in a terrible Stoke side. He is top-notch in all areas and is amazingly still only 26. He could be our keeper for years to come. He would be my 1st pick.
Defender:
Let’s start with Thomas Vermaelen, who quite simply fell apart last season. I’m not sure if it was injuries or loss of confidence, I just can’t figure it, but he’s got the balls to fight for his spot. If he returns to form it will be like new signing – and we know Wenger likes those!
Ashley Williams a proper footballing centre back and is the type Wenger likes. He’s good in the air, quick for his size and could really give us an added dimension back there. At around 12million he would be a good buy.
Phil Jagielka I really like as a player. He does everything well; he’s quick, wins headers and reads the game well. Can I see Everton selling? No, but definetly worth a bid.
Holding Midfielder:
Firstly a player I don’t want is Celtic’s Victor Wanyama. The Kenyan is a big strong player who plays centre back or holding midfielder but quite I don’t rate him that highly. Also, he’s giving his current/former team nightmares. NEXT…..
A year to 18months ago I would have said that Marouane Fellaini isn’t good enough but he has developed into a proper holding player, and is one the best in Europe at only 25. He wins headers at both ends, which is one of our real weak points. He’s strong in the tackle and just basically a beast very much in the Viera mold. He would be ideal for us. If it costs 15 to 2omillion then so be it. For me, he is a must have.
Etienne Capoue is another player I rate highly and is still only 24. Like Fellaini he is quality, but personally I favour the big Belgian between the two.
Goalscorer:
Gonzalo Higuaín – as in my previous blog, I would love him at Arsenal. Will Wenger spend around 25million? To win things nowadays you have to. Please, Mr Wenger, go and get him.
Even though I don’t think that’s a cat in hell’s chance of getting Wayne Rooney I personally think he would do well. He is a Prem-ready goalscorer who would add that something different. There is no chance he is coming though.
If you follow me, Arsene, our team would look something like this:
K-Begovic
Sagna Williams koscielny Gibbs
Felliani
Walcott Wilshere Cazorla
Rooney
Higuian
This team would fight for the title. Over to you Mr Wenger, and the Arsenal Board. Remember though, “trophies over profit”.
Until next time, mates, UP THE GUNNERS!
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