Are Arsenal REALLY interested in Gareth Barry?

Just when you think things can’t get worse for Arsenal, the club picks up a link to Manchester City star, Gareth Barry. Yeesh.

Being on the wrong end of a 5-1 drubbing can put you in a troubling mindset, but I hope Arsene Wenger exercises a little more sense in the summer transfer market, than he did when he set up his team for last weekend’s showdown with Liverpool.

Arsenal were outrun, out passed and outclassed at Anfield. They’re now smack-bang in the middle of the toughest period of their season and on this showing, they’re unlikely to remain in the title race, or the Champions League for much longer.

Arsene Wenger could well be left to rue his decision not to sign a striker during the January transfer window. I seriously doubt, however, that his mind has turned to Gareth Barry.

But that’s exactly what The Express claim. They suggest that Wenger was interested in Barry last summer and could go back in for him when the transfer window re-opens.

This will coincide with the end of Barry’s Manchester City contract, which will mean that he will be a free agent. If Arsenal were to move in for the England international, at least they wouldn’t have to spend over the odds.

In a midfield that’s got players like Mesut Ozil, Aaron Ramsey and Santi Cazorla in it, Barry would run the risk of sticking out like a sore thumb. Yes, he’s a fairly efficient passer of the ball and he works really hard, but I’m not sure he has the quality necessary to make it at the Emirates.

Ask yourself the following question: who would you rather have in your midfield: Gareth Barry or Mikel Arteta? For me, the answer is obvious.

Barry’s now 32-years-old and is approaching the autumn of his career. Will he really be spending this time with the Gunners?

Free signing or not, he’s not going to improve the squad, so Arsenal shouldn’t waste their time on him. If the Gunners are to progress, they’ll need to spend some big money on a striker.

Let’s just hope that Arsene Wenger has his priorities straight.

What’s your take? Should the Gunners really be trailing Gareth Barry?

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