Arsenal fans should recognise the name ‘Yoann Gourcuff’ by now. The Lyon star has been linked to the Gunners on numerous occasions throughout his career, but no deal has ever been secured.
These links are perhaps unsurprising. He’s French, he’s got insane technical ability and he’s also got a propensity for picking up injuries. Why wouldn’t Wenger be interested in him?
It was only a matter of time before the Gunners got linked to Gourcuff in this transfer window. This time round, however, The Express offer an extremely intriguing proposition.
They suggest that Arsenal have been in talks with Lyon over a swap deal that would see Gourcuff move to the Emirates, with Gervinho heading in the other direction.
I’m sure Arsenal fans would see this as a victory on two fronts. They’d receive a quality signing and get rid of a player who has been holding them back for some time.
Gervinho arrived at The Emirates with bags of ability, but little in the way of common sense. He hasn’t got any better. His shooting ability has become a punchline and it’s clear he has no future at the club.
The Ivorian’s stock has never been lower. Convincing another club to sign him could be considered a real coup.
To be fair, Gourcuff has struggled for the last couple of seasons too. Injuries and a lack of form have seen his place in Lyon’s side usurped by up-and-coming French star, Clement Grenier.
This had led Gourcuff to consider his options: “The most important thing is to play, but I have to look at the sporting project, whether they count on me, the means that we’re given to succeed, and if they have clear ideas which don’t change after a defeat.”
When Gourcuff is playing his best football, he’s absolutely sensational. There’s a reason why he has drawn comparisons to Zinedine Zidane. His technical ability is nothing short of remarkable. He can run with the ball, pick out a pin-point accurate pass and provide a goal-threat.
He’s a far more complete midfielder than Gervinho. I’d argue he needs a change in surroundings and a manager who’s prepared to back him.
With Gervinho also in need of a change, this swap deal seems to make sense for all parties. If Lyon are really willing to make this happen, Arsenal should move quickly and finalise the deal.
What’s your take? Would you swap Gervinho for Yoann Gourcuff?
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Why publish this story a full week AFTER it came onto the internet, and AFTER the Lyon manager has confirmed that there is NO TRUTH in this happening?!! Waste of time!!