Now that the World Cup is coming to a close, with the Netherlands and Spain playing against each other for the first time in the final, everyone’s attention will begin turning to their clubs. Arsene Wenger, fresh from signing Laurent Koscielny and Marouane Chamakh from the vast array of talent available from the French Ligue 1, will look to strengthen further. I think it is important not to rely on the World Cup too much in regards to players performance, as for every Gilberto there is, there is a Kleberson lurking.
To the areas in which Arsenal must strengthen, I believe Arsenal should buy; a goalkeeper, a centre-back, a holding-midfielder and a winger.
I reckon Arsene Wenger has got another centre-back lined up. I think I could tell of every centre-back I know, but Wenger would pull out a player so random, oh wait, that has happened with Koscielny! And Vermaelen the season before. The indication of a great player for Arsenal, is one which many know little about. If no centreback is bought in, then Song should be converted into one, freeing his position for a new signing.
In a winger, I think these players would be able to get a cross in, for new-boy Chamakh to score, like he did with his previous club Bordeaux.
Potential Targets;
Urby Emanuelson
Blessed with pace and able to play either left back or left wing, he has the ability to beat a man and put pinpoint crosses in. He can also fall back once his left back has passed him, in an advanced position. In the Arsenal team, Clichy and Gibbs are encouraged to attack, leaving space behind. The Ajax prodigy is exciting going forward and could be the answer to solidifying the left hand side. He may not cost as much as others, due to the great relationship between Ajax and Arsenal.
Marko Marin
A squad member in the German’s national team, the Werder Breman youngster is one of the most exciting wingers in the world. Cool in the pass, with lighting quick feet complementing his savvy first touch, Marin would be a scintillating addition. Despite being outshone by his teammate Ozil, he is a great player in his own right, and a cheeky bid from Arsenal may not be rivaled by other clubs, with others focusing their attention on Mesut Ozil.
Joe Cole
We cannot leave this tricky winger out. The way he has demolished Arsenal in the past is reason enough to entice him to swap The Bridge for The Emirates. He is available on a free, with experience of all competitions and can put a cross in. He scores and creates loads. However, Joe Cole’s wages may be a stumbling block, as well as the interest across the road from Tottenham.
Juan Manuel Mata
The Spanish winger is well-known to those who watch La Liga on a regular basis. A graduate from Real Madrid’s youth system, now at Valencia, Mata has often spoken of his desire to move to the Premier League. This youngster has the perfect pass, and can score bags of goals and has the perfect cross in his armory. The downside is that he may be a little small, but then so is Arshavin! He will also cost a lot of money, with Valencia cash-strapped, they will want as much as possible for a quality player.
Just one of these players bought will give Arsenal a chance even with injuries. Also, with England and France having diabolical World Cups, Samir Nasri and Theo Walcott have the chance to become heroes in the making for their countries, and that starts with their club form.
Onto holding midfielders, I think one may be needed especially if a centre-back doesn’t come in. Sol Campbell, William Gallas and Mikael Silvestre are all leaving, with only Djourou, Vermaelen and Koscielny left. There is hardly much experience between the three players. Either way, Song has the option to step back but cover is needed.
Onto options for holding midfielders, these are the potential players;
Benoît Cheyrou
The Marseille hit-man, 29 years of age and boasting a fresh winners medal with Marseille. A lot like Xabi Alonso in that he sits deep, breaks play up, but passes like an angel. The sort of cross-field passes that can take the pressure off the defence and switches it straight into attack. He may not cost too much, because of his age and Arsenal can offer a couple of youngsters on loan for a year. A signing that will last until other players have gained enough experience.
Felipe Melo
There is something about the Golden Bin winner, (which is the winner of the worst signing of the season) and no matter how many people tell me otherwise, I really think Melo is a great player. Blessed with rugged good looks, like those of a fighter, he is the ultimate player in breaking down opposition attacks. Wenger keeps courting him, wearing him down till he finally succumbs to the will of the Arsenal boss. Has a temper on him, wonderful for fans, showing commitment, something which has been distinctly lacking in the recent midfield. Could provide the snarl and bite to a whimper-ish defence.
Nigel De Jong
I put in this Dutch maestro as Manchester City have bought Yaya Toure, and have Barry, Vieria and Kompany, among others. He could be available, and judging by his impressive career, would provide a steel-like protection of the Arsenal midfield. However, his fantastic World Cup campaign may alert other, more cash flamboyant clubs.
These players are all capable of slotting into the team, if only for a few season, whilst youth players gain more experience. Also, competition for places is never a bad thing!
There are a lot of players that will be linked with Arsenal. There will also be a lot going on behind the scenes, probably because Wenger likes to show his players he’s still got it! Listening Fabregas? On that subject, theres no way Cesc is leaving, unless theres a bid of eighty million pounds! Either way, Arsenal fans hope there are more signings on the horizon and a successful season ahead.
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