With time running out for Arsenal in the January transfer window, fans are desperate to see Arsene Wenger take action. As usual, however, the Frenchman is playing his cards close to his chest.
It’s clear to all that the Gunners need an extra striker in their squad, but whether or not Wenger will make this happen remains to be seen.
Olivier Giroud has led the line admirably this season, but it would be a massive gamble to continue to expect him to produce the goods for the rest of year. What if he picks up an injury? What if his form goes to pot? What if he picks up a long-term suspension? The Premier League title’s on the line here.
As such, I’m sure most Arsenal fans are clamouring for some action. Well, here’s some good news: it could be on the way!
According to The Express, Arsenal are still in the running to sign Benfica’s highly regarded striker, Rodrigo (full name Rodrigo Moreno Machado). They also suggest that the player has attracted attention from Zenit St Petersburg (who lodged a £25m bid), but isn’t keen on moving to Russia.
This could leave Arsenal in pole position to get their hands on the Brazilian-born Spaniard. But would the Gunners be willing to match the Russian club’s bid?
Rodrigo has previously played for Real Madrid (the B team at least) and (oddly enough), Bolton Wanderers, where he spent a season on loan. Whilst his time with the Trotters wasn’t a success (he scored just one goal in 20 appearances), he’s been making a real name for himself in Portugal.
At just 22-years-old, he’s already got an excellent goal scoring record for Benfica, where he’s found the back of the net 34 times in 94 games. This season he’s been in particularly good form, scoring (pretty much) one goal every two games.
He’d also act as a decent foil for Olivier Giroud. The Frenchman is an out-and-out finisher, with limited technical ability and no pace whatsoever. Rodrigo, on the other hand, is a crafty footballer, who’s more than capable of turning the after-burners on, beating his man and getting in behind. The two of them could play quite nicely together, should Wenger ever chance his arm when it comes to the formation of his team.
With all that in mind, it would be difficult to argue against Arsenal signing Rodrigo. He’s a good player who operates in a position that the Gunners need to fill. Full steam ahead!
What’s your take? Should the Gunners move in for this former Real Madrid star?
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