Did anyone really believe that Swansea City’s Michu would suffer from second season syndrome?
Both he and Christian Benteke (last season’s other bargain signing) seemed to have too much about them to be a one hit wonder.
Indeed, after 22 goals in 43 games last season, Michu has already scored 5 goals in 11 games this year. The Spaniard is showing no signs of slowing down.
That’s great news for Swansea City fans, who are watching the value of their player climb and climb. In the back of their mind, however, they’ll be aware that if his fine performances continue, the chances of his leaving the club will increase.
With so many top clubs currently in need of a decent striker, Michu is more than likely to catch the eye. Arsenal in particular, who have limited options upfront, are thought to be interested.
But Swansea City won’t give up without a fight. They’re not really in a position where they have to sell, so are able to hold out and wait for a stupendous offer to come in.
According to The Star, the Swans chairman, Huw Jenkins has claimed that it will cost Arsenal £30m to make a move happen, based on previous comments from Michael Laudrup. That’s an awful lot of cash. Here’s what Jenkins said:
“We’ve seen with Tottenham and Gareth Bale that every player has a price. We are not in that bracket with Tottenham but they sold a top player. We are realistic about that side of things.”
“I would say Michael was about right with his valuation of Michu if you look at the current market, but this call-up enhances that further. We know we have a very talented player and naturally we want to keep him.”
Whilst £30m seems a little high, his goal-scoring form, Spain call-up and consistency merit a large price-tag. Still, it’s one that Arsenal may balk at.
Having said that, Arsenal do have the capital to make such a deal happen. The club is flush with cash from a series of excellent commercial deals and they have a clear need to sign a striker.
Arsene Wenger has also proven that he’s willing to make these big deals happen. He did just spend £42.4m on Mesut Ozil, after all.
So yes, Swansea City are playing hardball and are well within their right to do so. But Arsenal finally have the financial firepower to make something happen. It’ll be interesting to watch this one play out.
What’s your take? Can Arsenal afford to compete for Michu?
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