My Alternative Transfer List: 6 Players Who I Think Arsenal Should Consider Bidding For
Arsenal’s business over the summer has been disappointing, but what people seem to forget is that there has been an awful lot of activity with players departing left, right and centre. Now, fans want players coming into the club, but with a paper thin squad as it is, they want quality as well as versatility. I have compiled a list of players who may not have been linked with the club as if yet, but could potentially be considered by the club – An alternative list of transfer targets.
Samir Handanovic – A couple of reports in the past have linked the Inter goalkeeper to the club, but nothing serious. The 29-year-old has the experience and the ability to not only compete with Szczesny, but could also mentor the young Poland international. A bid of around £10 million should be enough to secure his services, in my opinion. The shot-stopper would be a smart signing and would add depth to the squad.
Mamadou Sakho – This player has also been linked with the club but, like Handanovic, nothing serious yet. The PSG centre-half has fallen behind Thiago Silva, Marquinhos and Alex in the pecking order in the French capital and is looking for a move away to gain first team football, ultimately to improve his chances of being selected for the French World Cup squad next year. The price being thrown around is about £8-£12 million, which is a fantastic price considering his quality and age.
Juanfran – The right-back role could prove quite problematic for Arsenal this season, especially if Bacary Sagna has to cover the centre-back position often. Arsenal do have Carl Jenkinson, but they need someone more experienced and reliable than him, and that’s where Juanfran fits the bill perfectly. The Atletico Madrid right back can also play right midfield too. His estimated price is also said to be around the £10 million mark, which could prove to be a clever signing.
Fernando – With an injury to key-man Mikel Arteta and the fitness of Jack Wilshere forever called into question, Arsenal may need to dip into the defensive midfield market. Fernando is exactly what the north London club are looking for; experienced, cheap, quality and hard working player. Again, his price is around £10 million, but Porto tend to charge a bit more for their players. Definitely an option for Arsenal though.
Erik Lamela – Why not? Who cares if Tottenham are heavily interested in the player? He’s extremely talented and would walk into most teams around Europe. Although his price is said to be around £30-£35 million, a price which may put Wenger off, his quality and potential is most definitely worth paying that much for. I, for one, would love him at Arsenal.
Jackson Martinez – Arsenal are running out of striker options, but the Colombian is still within the reach of the club. He’s a striker who has everything – height, power, finishing abilities, he’s skilful, quick and also very strong. Echoes of Thierry Henry, if you will. Arsenal will have to spend big, perhaps more than the £40 million + £1 bid for Luis Suarez. But if they do, then they have a hell of a player on their hands.
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