Why Arsenal should complete a deal for this long-term transfer target:

Arsenals transfer wish-list has grown into an almighty beast.

For my money, the Gunners could use an experienced keeper, a new centre-back, a right-back (to replace Bacary Sagna’s creaky legs), a defensive midfielder and a striker or two.

I’m sure Arsene Wenger will see things differently, but one thing’s for sure: it’ll take a lot of money to convert this Arsenal side into one that’s capable of winning the Premier League.

But that’s Wenger’s task at hand. After years without silverware, the Professor needs to put the Gunners in a position where they can make a proper stab of things next season.

With all this work to be done, I’m sure he’ll take a bargain where ever he can get one.

This brings me to the rumours concerning Anderlecht’s ace defender, Cheikhou Kouyate. He’s a player who has been on Arsenal’s radar for a while now, but this summer could finally be the occasion where Arsene makes his move.

The player himself has been unequivocal: “Everyone says you should take things one step at a time, but if Arsenal come then I have no doubt. When I played at Brussels, Arsene Wenger was already in touch with me.

Arsenal have been following me for a such a long time, but I had to get my [Belgian] passport. That now seems in order”. (Source: Inside Futbol)

He’s very much a player with Arsenal on his mind. But he’s contracted with Anderlecht until 2014 and the Gunners will have to negotiate with the Belgium side to make any potential deal happen.

This wont be an easy process. Kouyate has slowly but surely established himself in this Anderlecht side. He’s now an important first team player, whose pace, strength and physicality make him an adept defender. He’d be a good addition for a club like Arsenal.

After all, the Gunners are known for being a soft touch at the back. They need somebody who’s switched on, passionate and not afraid to get stuck in. I’m not convinced by either Thomas Vermaelen or Per Mertesacker and I think Laurent Koscielny needs a more solid defensive partner.

The player himself is obviously keen and Arsenal need to build a defensive platform that will help them challenge for silverware. He wouldn’t break the bank, but he would be a good fit for the Gunners.

What’s your take? Should Arsenal finally complete a deal for Cheikhou Kouyate?

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