3 Reasons Arsenal Should Forget About Centre-Back Target

Arsene Wenger seems adamant that he can land Swansea captain Ashley Williams this summer. The Wales international seems to have a hold over the Frenchman, but here are three reasons why I think the Gunners should forget about the 28-year-old.

1) According to the Mirror, Swansea want at least £12m for the centre-back. Now, it may not seem a huge amount in modern day football, but for a player who turns 29 this month that is a substantial amount of money. Although the club have an increased transfer budget this summer, that £12m could be spent on cheaper, younger targets. Adil Rami, for one. Martin Cacares for two. Douglas for three.

2) Arsenal already possess three of the most impressive centre-backs in the Premier League in the shapes of Per Mertesacker, Laurent Koscielny and Thomas Vermaelen. With the giant German establishing himself as first choice, the former two were battling for the second spot. And when your captain struggles to get into the first team you sure as hell don’t need another big money player sitting on the bench.

3) When your side is challenging at the top of the Premier League you need to spread the goals out amongst the squad. While its all good and well having the one main forward grabbing the majority – look at Robin van Persie last season – but both the midfield and defence need to chip in. Williams offers nothing going forward. He made just five key passes (zero assists) and failed to score a single goal in his 37 games.

Mertesacker hit three goals and Koscielny two, both in less games.