Yes, the World Cup is on the horizon, but I’m sure that Arsenal fans will be more concerned with the state of their squad. After all, it looks like they’re a signing or two away from being serious competitors in the world game.
By winning The FA Cup (their first piece of silverware in 9 years), they’ve got a monkey off their back and they’ve set themselves up for further success. Having spent longer than any other side on top of the Premier League table last year, all The Gunners need now is staying power!
The first step towards achieving this will be signing some support for Olivier Giroud. The Frenchman is a trooper who has exerted a lot of effort this season, but he shouldn’t be working alone. Whilst he’s a good finisher, his technique outside of the area isn’t great and he’s no Linford Christie.
In other words, he’s a far cry away from your typical Arsenal striker. I wouldn’t be surprised if Arsene Wenger was already on the hunt for somebody who would provide his team with a different approach.
This brings me to The Mirror‘s claim that Arsenal are hot on the trail of Benfica wildcard, Rodrigo. The Brazilian born striker will set Arsene Wenger back £24m. Quality doesn’t come cheap, does it?
As the source notes, Rodrigo is part owned by Peter Lim, who runs an investment group and also happens to be the owner of Valencia Football Club. Naturally enough, Rodrigo has been strongly linked with a move to the Mestalla. The Gunners may have to play the waiting game here.
But if they can fight off the competition, they’ll be landing a seriously good player. At just 23-years-old, Rodrigo is already an established talent. This year he has scored 18 goals and made 7 assists in the Primeira Liga. He also has bags of pace, great technique and real positional nous. He’s the perfect counter balance to Olivier Giroud.
£24m is a lot of money and this deal doesn’t look like it’s going to be easy to close. Still, I hope that Arsene Wenger doesn’t lose heart. Rodrigo could prove to be exactly what Arsenal need.
What’s your take? Should The Gunners swoop in for Benfica’s ace striker Rodrigo?
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