Written by Tony Merakli
Arsenal have been dealt a bitter defensive blow, after several reports claim that centre-back Thomas Vermaelen will be out of action for a further six weeks due to a niggling Achilles injury. If that wasn’t bad enough, it has now emerged that the Gunners are pondering a move for 34-year-old Nicola Legrottagile. Surely there are better options in the market than the experienced Italian?
Along with London rivals Chelsea, Arsenal are weighing up a possible move for the Juventus centre-back, who will be available on a free transfer this winter, according to the Daily Mail. The former Italian international would be an ideal signing for Arsene Wenger, as the Frenchman is renowned for not spending huge amounts of money on players. However, would it be a good signing for the North London club?
To a certain extent, the Gunners defensive line has struggled without the presence of Vermaelen this season. However, it does appear (to me anyway) that Laurent Koscielny has finally found his feet in the Premier League, whilst the emergence of Johan Djourou in the last few weeks is also something very positive to see. Nonetheless, Wenger will need to acquire a defender now more than ever, especially after facing the prospect of being without Vermaelen until mid-March.
Gary Cahill, Per Mertesacker and Phil Jagielka are also said to be on Wenger’s radar this January, but in theory, Nicola Legrottagile would provide more experience as well as a much cheaper option for the Arsenal boss. Many of the Arsenal faithful may believe that we only require short-term reinforcements, but realistically, we need someone for the present and future.
I certainly hope that this is in fact just transfer gossip, as I wouldn’t like to see 34-year-old Legrottagile at the Emirates. If Wenger does decide to venture into the January transfer market, then he should look to acquire a more youthful player and preferably one who has significant Premier League experience under his belt. With 19 days left until the window closes, one thing is for sure, Wenger must act swiftly to reinforce an already damaged back-line.
This article was first published on Gunnersphere.com – follow him HERE on Twitter
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