3. Chris Smalling
This will not be a popular suggestion for most Arsenal fans but Arsene Wenger has been a long-term admirer of Smalling, competing with United before they eventually offered more money. The former Blackburn player is capable of playing in central defense as well as at right-back and at the moment, we could really do with someone of his versatility in our squad. I only suggest Smalling due to United’s apparent interest in Thomas Vermaelan and perhaps a swap deal could be on the cards.
Smalling would join as a 3rd choice centre-back and an emergency option at right-back. He compares favorably to Vermaelan and is 4 years younger. It would be a risk on Arsenal’s part as there is no guarantee that Smalling will improve as he gets older, but it would be a small risk in my opinion as there are few defenders his age with Premier League & Champions League experience available for £10m (Vermaelan’s asking price). If both Ferguson and Wenger see something in Smalling, there surely must be something there – and perhaps Bould could get that something out of him.