If You Were Arsene Wenger, And Had £100m To Spend, Who Would You Look To Buy?
It’s a figure that was thrown around at the start of the summer and even at some points last season. Arsenal fans will know exactly what I’m talking about, but for the people who don’t know, it’s the sum of money that was promised to be spent by Arsenal this summer. So far they have managed to only increase the amount available.
Two free agents have been signed by Arsenal including the former Gunners midfielder Mathieu Flamini. Yaya Sanogo was the other player that the north London outfit recruited. With less than five days to go until deadline day, fans of Arsenal football club have entered the pit of negativity with seemingly no way back unless Arsene Wenger’s decides to actually part with some money.
The anger has only intensified in the last couple of days because Tottenham look to be spending more and more money on quality – players which include Erik Lamela and Christian Eriksen. With the north London derby fast approaching, it’s no mystery which set of fans are more excited.
So with £100 million to spend, who would you buy, if you were Arsene Wenger?
As I have proposed the question I may as well answer it as well. All prices in this article have either been quoted, or I have used transfermarkt.co.uk to get the rough estimate.
Firstly, I’d like Arsenal to go after Mamadou Sakho, who is valued at £10 million. Young, available and a determined centre-back who is likely to turn out to be good value for money at that price. PSG supposedly no longer need him, so he may well be easiest to get out of all the targets.
With Flamini signed we won’t really have to go after a new full-back as he can cover those positions, plus he adds depth to the midfield. However, another midfielder is needed and Arsenal have been linked heavily with Newcastle’s Yohan Cabaye. £20 million is bit steep for him, but worth it as he can cover any position in midfield and will consistently put in a good shift.
£30 million spent so far, and £70 million remains.
Next up should be Angel Di Maria for a reported fee of £26 million. With Lukas Podolski out for 10 weeks and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain still injured, Arsenal need a good winger who can come in and actually improve the team. Di Maria is quick, he’s skilful and will petrify opposition. He can do to the ball what Theo Walcott looks like he can do but can never actually quite achieve it. For example, When Di Maria gears up to go on a mazy run, he will probably get to where he wants to go. Walcott usually gets tackled.
£44 million left.
Jackson Martinez for £35 million would be a hell of a signing. One of just a few strikers left in the world that can actually improve us [Arsenal]. He’s big, strong, quick, skilful and clinical player. He will be a brilliant signing, if you ask me.
£9 million and I’ll split that between two players.
First up is Julio Cesar, £2-3 million. The Brazilian is xperienced and still quality, and far too good to be languishing in the Championship.
Lastly, I would bring in Kevin Grosskreutz from Borussia Dortmund. For a supposed £6 million you’ll get one of the most versatile players in Europe.
In summary:
Julio Cesar £3 million
Mamadou Sakho £10 million
Yohan Cabaye £20 million
Angel Di Maria £26 million
Kevin Grosskreutz £6 million
Jackson Martinez £35 million = £100 million
And I’ll be happy. Very happy.
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