Whilst most pundits are expecting Arsenal to sign a centre-forward during the January transfer window, Arsene Wenger is a constant source of surprises.
We all thought he’d sign a striker during the summer. Instead, however, he brought in a £42.4m German midfielder. That proved to be an inspired choice for the Gunners, who have gone from strength-to-strength this season.
So would you really be that surprised if Arsene Wenger elected to sign a centre-back rather than a centre-forward this January?
At the moment Arsenal appear to have one of the strongest defences in the Premier League. Per Mertesacker and Laurent Koscielny appear to have formed the perfect partnership.
The big German positions himself well and wins everything in the air. The plucky Frenchman is quick along the ground, tackles well and makes a number of timely interceptions. They compliment each other nicely and have been instrumental to Arsenal’s success this season.
It’s no coincidence that the Gunners have registered five clean sheets in six games.
But what happens if Per Mertesacker or Laurent Koscielny pick up a long-term injury? What happens if Koscielny (who is rash at the best of times) rushes into a tackle and picks up a red card?
Arsenal will be forced to turn to Thomas Vermaelen. The big Belgian may be the club’s captain, but he hasn’t had any regular first-team football for quite some time.
It’s been a difficult year for Vermaelen, who has become a magnet for errors. His form is on the rocks and he’s not fully fit. He certainly can’t be relied upon.
According to The Mirror, Arsenal are in the market for ‘classy’ Swiss centre-back, Fabian Schar. If you watched Chelsea’s most recent outing against FC Basel, you may well remember him. He was the man who kept the Blues’ lacklustre forwards at bay for the entire 90 minutes.
Arsenal will face competition for the £10m-rated man from Spurs. But if the Gunners interest is genuine, they should have enough money in the bank to see off their North London rivals.
Whilst this move may not seem entirely necessary, it could prove important. Having competition in this area of the park will certainly provide a boost to the Gunners’ title credentials.
Having somebody as good as Schar ready to step in when necessary will be a big step forward for the Gunners, who have been forced to turn to the likes of Ignasi Miquel, Johan Djourou and Sebastien Squillaci in recent times.
So let’s hope that Arsene Wenger surprises us again. Or, better still, that he signs Schar and a top-class striker this January.
What’s your take? Do Arsenal really need to sign another centre-back?
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Why buy a centre half when it is clear a striker is needed? Bentner is championship standard and the drop in quality if he has to play is staggering.
Yes it is very important to sign center-back