Arsenal’s 3-2 defeat at the hands of Stoke City has been a little hard to stomach. The Gunners have been struggling for form in recent weeks, but they were thoroughly found out by a disciplined, direct Mark Hughes side that proved to be too hot to handle.
To concede three goals during the first half of a game should sound some major alarm bells around the club. It’s now clear that everything’s not right at Arsenal. Yes, it was a makeshift defense, but that’s no excuse for the nature of the performance. There were talented, experienced players out there who made no effort to block crosses, win headers or attack the second ball.
Once they conceded a second goal you could tell that The Gunners’ confidence was shot. Arsene Wenger needs to inject belief back into this side. At the moment, these players look a little hopeless (in both senses of the word).
As his managerial techniques seem to be failing to gee them up, the best thing he can do now is to send out a message in the January transfer window. He needs to make some major signings and he needs to do so as early on as possible.
This brings me to The Metro‘s claim that Arsenal have moved a step closer to a deal for Roma’s talented young striker, Mattia Destro. This is very exciting news indeed. The Italian ace isn’t a centre-back (which The Gunners need more than anything else), but he is a player worth pursuing.
In 52 appearances for Roma, Destro has found the back of the net 23 times. Not bad for somebody who’s only 23-years-old, eh? If he’s given a proper run of games in a team where he has the full backing of his manager, I’m sure he’d be a hit.
Interestingly enough, the player has previously spoken out about Arsenal’s interest in him: ‘Arsenal for me? The rumours are good, I’m happy for them. This is the proof that I’m doing my work well.’
It sounds like he wouldn’t be averse to a move. The Metro claim that Destro’s representatives are in London to discuss a £20m January move to the club. Here’s hoping that they’re able to hash out the terms and make it happen!
What’s your take? Could Mattia Destro relight The Gunners’ fire?
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