Did Arsenal REALLY not spend in the January transfer market because of Gervinho?

A rather misleading article appeared on NewsNow (courtesy of Goal.com) during the week with the title: ‘Wenger: why would Arsenal buy when Gervinho is the best player…’

That’s obviously enough to send even the most mild-mannered Arsenal fan into a fit of apoplectic rage. The truth, however is a little different. When you open up the full article (found here) the full title reads: ‘Wenger: why would Arsenal buy when Gervinho is the best player at the Afcon.’ Still a little frustrating for Arsenal fans to hear, but a little more understandable.

Many Arsenal fans were crying out for a new signing this January. With their team languishing out of the top four and humiliating defeats to the likes of Bradford City, Norwich City and Swansea City still lingering in the memory, it’s clear that something is missing from this Arsenal side – particularly upfront, where they lack mobility and killer instinct.

Despite a pressing need, Arsene Wenger only added Malaga left-back Nacho Montreal to his squad during the January transfer window. I think the Spanish full-back is a good addition, but it’s disappointing that Wenger didn’t do more to secure a fourth place finish.

Here are the actual quotes from which Goal.com conjured their title – Wenger was asked how difficult it is to attract talent mid-season as responded as follows: “We worked very hard on it, we were everywhere. I would have loved to take somebody else but we didn’t find anyone.

In the Africa Cup of Nations, the best player is Gervinho. It’s simple. Why should we go there when the best player is Gervinho? We already have Gervinho.”

Fear not Arsenal fans, all is fine because you have Gervinho – a man who has made little to no impact in the Premier League. I do however, understand Wenger’s point. Unless you’re paying way over the odds, there are very few players available who have the quality to improve this Arsenal side.

It’s also worth noting that Gervinho has had a rather good AFCON. He’s shown his pace and trickery down the flanks and has finally begun to add goals to his game. If he brings his form back to the Premier League, he would be like a new signing for Arsenal (I apologise for using that phrase).

He has the ability to succeed. All he needs is a little confidence. Maybe what Wenger said wasn’t so laughable after all?

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