Could there be any truth to this bizarre Arsenal transfer rumour?

Here’s a transfer rumour I never expected to see. According to The Daily Mail, Newcastle’s top defender, Steven Taylor is a ‘shock’ name on Arsene Wenger’s defensive wish-list. Wait, what?

Steven Taylor is a Newcastle man through and through. He’s been with the Magpies since age 9. Without wanting to trot out a cliche, Taylor bleeds black and white. Being with a club for more than 17 years will do that to you.

He’s also captained the side before and spoken many times about his love for the club. The fans, naturally, have returned his love. Despite not holding down a regular place in the side (largely due to injuries) for quite some time, Taylor remains extremely highly regarded among the Toon faithful.

So why would Taylor leave a club where he is adored and has an important role, to join a club where he may not get regular football? Yes, it would be a step up in terms of quality, but it’d also be a step down. With all that back-and-forth, he’d end up in a very uncomfortable position indeed.

Then there’s Arsenal. Do the Gunners really need Steven Taylor?

Yes, Arsenal are highly criticised for their defense. This, I think, is largely due to the lack of success the club has enjoyed for the last eight years. The defense remains the easiest part of the team to scapegoat, despite maintaining an excellent record last season.

The truth is, Laurent Koscielny and Per Mertesacker were absolutely imperious together towards the end of the year. Arsene Wenger would be barmy to break up a partnership that clearly works so well together.

Then there’s Thomas Vermaelen. Yes, the big Belgium bruiser’s reputation took a knocking last year, but there’s no doubting his quality. I’d certainly put him above Steven Taylor, despite his faults (which seem to derive from his over-eagerness).

If the Gunners do sign another defensive player this summer, the new addition should be able to compete with Vermalen for a place in the squad. Given his injury problems, I’m not sure Taylor is the right man for the job.

Whilst Toon fans will probably rate their player higher, I’m sure they’ll agree: Arsenal and Taylor just aren’t a good fit. Hopefully Arsene Wenger will soon arrive at the same conclusion.

What’s your take? Could Arsenal really make a move for this Newcastle hero? 

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