Dimitar Berbatov is a curious figure. If he made it look as though he gave a damn, worked hard and put in a shift, I’m sure he’d still be considered one of the Premier League’s best. If he looked a little more mobile, a little more sprightly, I’m sure he’d still be able to find a home at a top club.
Instead the languid Bulgarian seems to be spending the last few years of his career at Fulham, where he’s growing increasingly frustrated. The fact that somebody with as much technique and natural ability as Berbatov is playing his football for the Cottagers (who must currently be the Premier League’s worst side) beggars belief.
But it’s the bed he made. Despite regularly finding himself in the goals at Manchester United, he never really broke a sweat or worked hard enough to hold down a regular starting position. With Wayne Rooney and Robin Van Persie running the show at Old Trafford, he was always going to be forced out. That let to a £5m move to Craven Cottage in August 2012.
Since the move his work-rate has only decreased. I find it hard to believe that he’s all that interested in playing for Fulham. The fact that he’s only scored one League goal this season is revealing.
This has led to numerous sources (for instance, The Mirror) suggesting he’s keen to leave Fulham this January. With only six months left on his current contract, he could provide a relatively cheap option to any potential suitors.
Which has me wondering: could Dimitar Berbatov be a good fit for Arsenal? The Gunners are crying out for a striker who can play second fiddle to their big, bulky Frenchman, Olivier Giroud. Nicklas Bendtner ain’t up to snuff, but a fired-up Berbatov could be just the ticket.
Whilst there will always be questions about the Bulgarian’s motivation levels, I’m sure he would raise his game were he to play alongside the world-class talent on display at the Emirates.
For Arsenal, he would represent a decent short-term option whilst Arsene Wenger pulls together a bigger, better more impressive deal for somebody else.
It may not be the most intuitive deal of all time, but it’s one I could get behind.
What’s your take? Should Arsenal be interested in Dimitar Berbatov or steer well clear?
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it is a plus to arsenal