In a stark change from the usual state of affairs, Arsene Wenger seems to have got most of his spending done relatively early in the transfer window. Arsenal fans are used to having to wait for The Professor to bring in a deadline day bargain, but they’ve already seen players like Alexis Sanchez, Mathieu Debuchy, Calum Chambers and David Ospina waltz through The Emirates’ gates this summer.
What with their recent 5-1 win over Benfica (inspired by Yaya Sanogo, no less!), it strikes me that this is an exciting time to be an Arsenal fan.
But let’s get back to the transfer situation. Arsene Wenger has been so trigger happy this summer, that the only players they still seem to need is a defensive midfielder and a replacement centre-back, should Thomas Vermaelen opt to move on this summer.
Let’s focus on the latter possibility. With Vermaelen struggling for game-time, it would surprise nobody if he were to leave The Gunners this summer. Arsene Wenger just needs to make sure he’s ready to bring somebody else in to replace him
With Laurent Koscielny and Per Mertesacker nailed on starters and Calum Chambers capable of operating as third or fourth choice centre-back, I’d argue that The Gunners could use an experienced pro who’s ready and willing to step in whenever the occasion calls for it.
This brings me to The Gunners interest in Real Madrid’s veteran defender Alvaro Arbeloa. Could this former Liverpool man prove to be a good option for Arsenal?
The 31-year-old defender is primarily a right-back, but he’s also fairly confident operating as a centre-back. This versatility is sure to attract Arsene Wenger’s attention. He likes his defenders to be able to switch positions if necessary.
The Metro note that Arbeloa would likely ‘be available on the cheap’ if Arsenal are genuinely interested. For a man with bag-loads of Premier League experience (not to mention 189 appearances for Real Madrid), it sounds like he could end up being a summer bargain.
I don’t particularly want to see Thomas Vermaelen move on this summer, but it’s good to know that Arsenal would be in safe hands were he to do so.
What’s your take? Would Alvaro Arbeloa be the perfect replacement for Thomas Vermaelen?
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