Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has dragged his heels for far too long in terms of his defensive midfield. Francis Coquelin has belatedly stepped in and made a real difference to the side with his discipline in front of the defence.
And some may want to see him remain the first choice anchor. But, even so, Arsenal need another such player if they want to win things. If Coquelin were to get injured Arsenal would once more suffer from a soft centre.
Reports this week have suggested that Wenger is interested in signing the exceptional and rather unlucky Asier Illaramendi from Real Madrid. The Daily Mail says:
They are also looking to sell Spain international Asier Illaramendi with Real Sociedad, Liverpool and Arsenal all interested in a cut-price £18million deal.
At 25 years old this lad has been held back by the form of Modric, Khedira and Kroos. But, although he has never quite made the grade at El Bernabeu he would be an excellent signing for Arsenal – he could turn out to be as important as Alexis Sanchez is to the squad.
He likes to get forward from time to time, but his main purpose is to shut the door on the opposition – he sees things early, is highly mobile and a lovely passer of the ball.
He’s very similar to Morgan Schneiderlin but there is now so much interest in the Frenchman that Arsenal might be better to get in early for this fully fledged Spain international.
Let’s see him in action. Arsenal fans: keen?
