Positions Arsenal Must Strengthen Before 31st August
Following an unimpressive start to the new Premier League campaign, opinions from a number of pundits have been proven correct. It has been strongly suggested that Arsenal will not be contenders for the Premier League title this season and may even fight to finish in the top 4. Departures from key players Cesc Fabregas to Barcalona and Samir Nasri and Gael Clichy both to Manchester City has left major gaps within the squad that have yet to been filled. However with the money received from the transfer, Arsene Wenger is now sitting on a transfer kitty of over £60million so surely this is now the time they spend a big sum of money.
The obvious position Arsenal are in need to strengthen is centre backs. Thomas Vermealen has proven to be a great player; however fans have become restless with mistakes from both Laurent Koscienly and Johan Djourou which have cost the Gunners dearly in many key games. Rumours have linked them with Gary Cahill, Chris Samba and Scott Dann, however a move for any of the players has been made. Gary Cahill is seen to be the favourite with the Arsenal fans, as the Bolton defender is a leader and can also score goals. The stopper is also expected to replace John Terry or Rio Ferdinand in the England defence, which Gooners feel would be ideal to have a young English defender alongside Vermealen.
Another position that is needed to be improved for Arsenal is the midfield. Fabregas and Nasri were the star men in their midfield and have left a massive gap. Aaron Ramsey and Jack Wilshere are brilliant youngster who are expected to step up to the plate in the middle of the park, however Wenger’s side still lack an attacking minded player.. Rumours have speculated that Real Madrid midfielder Kaka would be moving to the Emirates, however the deal is unlikely due to the Brazilian’s £150,000 a week wage demands. Belgium winger Eden Hazard is seen to be a perfect replacement as he is still young, 20, and is believed to be a potential superstar.
Arsenals also have a lack of experience at left-back, with Kieran Gibbs and Armand Traore their only remaining players in that position following Clichy’s move. Both Gibbs and Traore suffer from a lot of injuries and are yet to show signs of being good enough to feel the void. Leighton Baines would be a great move for the club as he is now challenging Chelsea defender Ashley Cole for a place in the England Squad and also enjoyed the highest cross success rate in the Premier League last season.
