During the summer both Arsenal and Tottenham were believed to be interested in Southampton’s star midfielder, Morgan Schneiderlin. Whilst just about every member of The Saints’ squad was allowed to leave, The Frenchman was kept on (and showed some resentment at the fact that he was left behind). Neither of the North London rivals got the man they were after.
But with Arsenal’s problems in the centre-of-the-park clear for everybody to see, it wouldn’t be all that surprising if Arsene Wenger were to move back in for Schneiderlin. This brings me to Southampton boss Ronald Koeman’s comments on the situation:
‘We will sell nobody in January. Morgan’s attitude is fantastic – everybody knows that he had a difficult time in the summer, but finally he accepted his situation and he’s doing his best and looking forward to returning to playing [from injury].’ (Source: The Metro)
The comment about not selling anybody in January must be music to Southampton fan’s ears. After all, The Saints sold half of their squad during the summer. The fact that they’ve done as well as they have done so far this season is a minor miracle (not to diminish the role that Koeman and the players have had in proceedings, of course), but I’m not sure that they’d be able to repeat the feat again. The Saints have to work hard to keep this squad together.
Still, I can’t help but feel that it’s going to be more difficult that they might hope to keep hold of Morgan Schneiderlin. If the Frenchman had his head turned during the summer transfer window, will things really be any different this January? If a club like Arsenal come knocking, will he be able to stop himself from agitating for a move?
The Saints may well play hardball, but The Gunners have a fair amount of financial muscle. If Arsene Wenger really is interested in Schneiderlin, I’m sure he’ll be able to pull this deal off, despite Koeman’s protestations. He just needs to prepare a deal that Southampton can’t refuse.
It’ll be interesting to watch this one play out.
What’s your take? Could Arsenal still wrap up a deal for Morgan Schneiderlin? Will Southampton be prepared to sell this talented midfielder?
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