Pepe Reina is a player who has an odd relationship with Arsenal. Despite having been at Liverpool for quite some time, he’s managed to pick up a number of links to The Gunners. Whilst a move to The Emirates has never materialised, it looked like a close thing on at least one occasion.
Arsenal fans may also resent the way that Reina pulled a Barcelona shirt over Cesc Fabregas’ head whilst on International duty, before the former Arsenal captain agreed a move back to the Nou Camp.
Regardless, there’s little doubt that he’s a top quality keeper. What’s more, he has plenty of Premier League experience. This makes me wonder why more clubs aren’t interested in his services. Why, for instance, aren’t Liverpool interested in giving him a starting spot at Anfield. Surely he’s a better option than Simon Mignolet?
Reina spent last season out on loan at Napoli. During this time he did an excellent job, making 43 appearances. But now he’s found himself in a kind of footballing purgatory. The Reds don’t want him back and it doesn’t look like Napoli will make a summer move for him either. Is it time for Arsenal to swoop in for their long-term transfer target?
According to The Metro, Arsene Wenger is considering making a £5m bid for Pepe Reina. Whilst Liverpool may not want to sell to a Premier League rival, this probably represents the player’s current market value.
As for The Gunners, they’re in desperate need of a back-up keeper. With FA Cup winning keeper, Lukasz Fabianski, off to Swansea City, someone is going to have to take his place. I’m sure that Arsene Wenger’s preference will be somebody who can push Arsenal’s first choice option, Wojciech Szczesny, all the way.
Pepe Reina is good enough to do this. What’s more, at 31-years-old, the Spaniard may fancy one more shot at a big club. It’ll certainly be interesting to watch this one play out.
What’s your take? Should The Gunners make a move for this Liverpool ace? What other options should be on their transfer wish-list?
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