Soccerlens.com

One in, One out – Arsenal plan January strategy

Arsenal are a team that has been playing well on the big occasions, but faltering elsewhere. The patriotic fans of the Emirates Stadium have been crying, yearning and begging for a big money transfer from Mr. Wenger. But it has fallen on deaf ears. Wenger has said that his ‘youth policy’ will carry the team this season, and to only judge his squad in May. However, has the time come to add some much need experience to the team?

With five losses already this season, most have been pleading for an experienced midfielder or defender or even both to solve their problems at the back, and with reports Arsenal have at least thirty million to spend, why not? Players along the lines of a Xabi Alonso, Gareth Barry, Christoph Metzelder, and Micah Richards even the likes of Yaya Toure were flung into the lap of Arsene Wenger. But for one reason or the other, the boss has decided otherwise.

Personally, I believe that if you take the time and effort to look at the squad at Arsenal, there are some very experience players there, with a handful of youngsters. Gallas, K. Toure, Fabregas, Rosicky and Van Persie, are all players with a fair bit of experience. However, I do believe Arsenal do need a solid midfielder who is willing to run back more than forward, and whose passes almost always find it intended destination. I think Xabi Alonso would fit the bill perfectly, but he isn’t getting any younger or faster, and Liverpool is not willing to let him go unless they receive the right price. Plus, Cesc would be more than happy for the Liverpool man to accompany him in the heart of the field. Wouldn’t mind seeing Micah Richard’s added to the pack though, young but does have experience.

Lukas Podolski’s name has been thrown in to the hat, with Arsenal trying to capture the German before. But reports and rumour have suggested he is heading to German club Cologne (although Bayern say he’s going nowhere), not that Arsenal need more strikers.

My Target: Xabi Alonso (Liverpool FC)

However, with the club in turmoil before the Champions League match against Kiev, the rumour mill has been working overtime. William Gallas is the one drawing most attention after his recent outburst, with certain teams looking into the situation. After the Chelsea game, one would find it near impossible for Wenger to let go of their former captain, but it is football after all.

Tottenham manager Harry Rednapp boiled the blood of Gunners fans world wide after claiming he might launch a transfer bid to take the Frenchman from the Emirates. What a riot that would create.

Rumour also mentioned Cesc Fabregas as a potential want-away from the Emirates. But after gaining the captaincy, I think it’s certain that the talismanic midfielder won’t be going anywhere. Adebayor, Van Persie, Walcott and Clichy have also been mentioned, with AC Milan apparently still keen on the Togolese front man.

Recent rumour about Kolo Toure’s departure have been gaining some momentum, and with the former ‘Invincible’ not able to hold down a regular spot this season I wont be guaranteeing his position at the Red and White. With the wealthy Manchester City interested in acquiring his services, it may be time for Kolo to farewell the club he has called home for over six years.

My Most Likely To Leave: Kolo Toure

Arsenal fans, who should Wenger sign and sell this January?

Topics: Arsenal, English Premier League, Football Transfers