Former Arsenal and Tottenham midfielder David Bentley has claimed that the Gunners should make a sensational swoop for former Spurs favourite Gareth Bale.
Bale is currently at Real Madrid but is reportedly on his way out of the Bernabeu, with the club’s top brass unhappy at the Welshman’s injury problems.
The winger has suffered another injury setback in recent days, coming down with a thigh injury while he was on his way back from a separate calf complaint.
Bentley, who was a trainee at Arsenal before spending five years at rivals Spurs, thinks that Arsenal should look at bringing in Bale this summer.
Speaking to 888sport, Bentley said: “If there was an option of going for Gareth Bale – who is available and can have an effect long-term – then Arsenal will pay the wages. That would put the cat among the pigeons.
“There are a few rumours and it wouldn’t surprise me if he was available and £86m would be a snip. Bale can do everything and is one of the best players I’ve ever seen. He’s also commercially good.
“If they can get him for £86m they can more than manage the £300,000 a week or whatever he’s on. That would be the player I’d target.”
OPINION
Bentley’s claim is fanciful at best. Firstly, there would be doubts over Arsenal’s ability to even pay the £86million touted for Bale. Yes, they will most likely be receiving fees for Alexis Sanchez and Mesut Ozil, who look to be on their way out, but these fees will be reduced with both on the final year of their contracts. Secondly, there is no way Bale would make the move to the red half of North London. The Welshman has admitted he still holds a great love for Spurs, and with so many other options surely to be on the table for him, a move to Arsenal would be wiped off that list immediately.