4) Fabian Delph
Another alternative is Fabian Delph of Aston Villa. He’s not a true defensive midfielder, but he still has more bite than our entire midfield. He’s tenacious, and likes kicking people. What’s not to love? He’s also a talented footballer, scoring some crackers in recent seasons, and generally selling himself for any future transfer window. He’s 25 and proven. He’s in the final year of his contract, which expires in the summer. Villa have a dilemma. Sell, or lose him for nothing. If Arsenal came in and put a serious offer on the table, Aston Villa couldn’t dismiss it. In other words… Arsene needs to make them an offer they can’t refuse.
5) Winston Reid
The final player, and an absolute minimum requirement in January, is Winston Reid of West Ham. He’s also 26, so that makes four players, including Schneiderlin, that are all at a mature age with bags of Premier League experience. There are no gambles here. These players will come in and they will work. They will improve the team. Winston Reid has been excellent in central defence for West Ham in recent seasons, and has recently come into the spotlight once again. He’s solid, and doesn’t mess around. Arsenal could do much, much worse than Winston Reid in January, or even the summer. It’s a no brainer. He won’t cost the world, either. Allardyce has apparently claimed that he doesn’t see Reid’s future at West Ham, a comment likely hindering on the manager’s high opinion of the player.
Play your hand, Arsene. Surprise us.