It’s widely been acclaimed as the best transfer signing of the summer. The capture of Mesut Ozil for the Gunners was doubtless a major coup for Arsene Wenger, and as details leak out over time, it seems that this was no last minute trolley dash deal, but that much planning had gone into it over the previous weeks. With that now concluded however Wenger is now looking to tie up deals for some of his existing staff to secure the club’s stability.
Centre back Per Mertesacker is apparently high on the French manager’s list. The German was reportedly helpful in securing Ozil’s signiture during a telephone call to his compatriot. His mature influence has also been a boon to Wenger in the dressing room, and the player who was signed at the tail end of last summer’s window in what seemed at the time like a panic buy, has become integral to the Gunners’ fortunes. It’s no surprise therefore that Wenger is keen to extend the 28 year old’s deal which is now entering its final two years.
Wenger is also reportedly keen to tie up a new deal for French defender Bakary Sagna. The player has suffered a number of injuries of late, but Wenger still believes the 30 year old has much to give to the Arsenal cause and with this being the final year of his contract the manager is loath to lose him. A similar position applies with Czech midfielder Tomas Rosicky. The creative midfielder has not been an ever present in the team, and his ability to command a first eleven spot may be further hampered by the arrival of Ozil. That said, Wenger clearly feels that there is worth in the player, who apparently is also keen to stay.
Although during the summer, many – Gooners amongst them – began to doubt Wenger’s ability to conjure another successful team at the Emirates, should he tie up these targets, and combine them with Ozil, it won’t have been a bad few weeks for the club. The Arsenal fans may then have renewed call to dig out those ‘In Arsene We Trust’ banners.
For more from All Blue Daze:
Facebook: Search “All Blue Daze” and click “Like”
Twitter: @All_Blue_Daze
Blog: allbluedaze.tumblr.com
Add Sportslens to your Google News Feed!
