Arsenal are targeting a ‘bigger name’ to reinforce their midfield, rather than investing £25million and over £100,000 per week wages in Morgan Schneiderlin – according to Andy Mitten.
Mitten, a respected journalist wrote in an article for the Daily Post:
Teammates thought Schneiderlin, 25, was going to Arsenal for the player had spoken of his desire to play in the Champions League but United can pay him more and Arsene Wenger is now letting it be known that they’re looking for a bigger name to reinforce their midfield.
I agree to be honest – if we are paying £25million for a player who’d only be a slight improvement – we may as well pay another £5million or so and get a world class player. Someone mentioned that Schneiderlin is asking for wages that would make him the third highest paid player at Arsenal – that’s just silly.
The problem is, who is now available? The club have ruled out a move for Arturo Vidal, whilst Geoffrey Kondogbia has joined Inter Milan. I can’t think of anyone available who would be a better signing really.
But Mesut Ozil and Alexis Sanchez weren’t obviously available before making moves to Arsenal – the Gunners may be doing groundwork on another huge coup – perhaps someone like Javi Martinez. It’s a wild guess – but that really would be worth waiting for.
The Spaniard has been riddled with injuries, but he’s a world class player – and one that Bayern Munich don’t seem to full appreciate. Other than that, perhaps a move for Luiz Gustavo, Lars Bender, Sven Bender or William Carvalho is possible.
Wenger may take the view that an ageing Arteta needs to be replaced – and he may seek to sign a playmaker rather than a natural defensive midfielder. Someone like Mateo Kovacic or Asier Illaramendi could be targetted.
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Martinez would be the perfect signing for me. I’ve been a huge fan of his since he was at Athletic Bilbao – the 26 year old is truly world class and would be worth every penny of the £30million or so Munich would probably accept. It’s probably a pipe dream but you never know these days..
Who do you think we will sign in midfield? If anyone at all? Share your thoughts by commenting below.