Arsenal got a draw last night and many immediately suggested that this was the start of the dip that everyone was expecting. But that is not a fair analysis of the game. Arsenal got a draw even though they were playing with 10 men against a really good and a really plucky Southampton side.
Arsenal have confounded critics on many occasions this season and we believe that they will continue to do so. They are still in with a shout for the title as well. But with teams like Chelsea and Manchester City in competition, the odds are stacked against Arsenal, with so many games to go. Not because they don’t have a first 11 which is commensurate, in terms of quality, with the big two. But because Chelsea and Manchester City can both call upon huge squads if they get injuries to big players.
Arsenal aren’t exactly threadbare themselves. But you just feel that a big signing at this point, for the attacking areas of the park, would be a massive bonus. Another inspired signing would fan the flames of title glory through the spring.
The big deal that has been mooted for Arsenal during the January transfer window is for Julian Draxler. Despite there only being three days left in the transfer window the odds of Draxler coming to Arsenal keep shortening with certain bookies. When we last updated you on proceedings the player was 5/6 to join the club in January.
The Express says that Arsenal are making a ‘cut-price’ bid for his services in January:
Arsenal offer £25m for Julian Draxler as Chelsea END interest in Schalke star
Draxler’s odds have come in again over the last couple of days and now stand at 1/8 with SkyBet. This makes them clear favourites to sign the player this month. And we believe that Arsenal really need to make this signing if they are going to stay the course.
Arsene Wenger remains hopeful of doing some business this week. He said last night:
‘I hope we’ve something to tell you [on signings by Friday],’ he said.
Arsenal fans do you think the club still has a good chance to do this deal in January?
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