Sometimes we wonder whether certain transfer speculation is generated simply to wind up Arsenal fans.
Because many of them believe that Arsenal’s need for a stronger spine is obvious. The team has an abundance of craft but sometimes lacks the power and aggression to cope with the top teams.
So the latest reports may further inflame the masses. The Express reports:
ARSENAL will look to beat Manchester United, Chelsea and Tottenham to Portuguese midfielder Joao Moutinho as the long-term replacement for Mikel Arteta.
Monaco have changed their philosophy in recent times to take Financial Fair Play restrictions into account and could be ready to part with Moutinho for around £30m (37.9m Euro) in the summer.
The 28 year old has 78 caps for Portugal and has been immaculate wherever he has played. He’s a passmaster who is very careful with the ball while technically excellent – a constant whirr of movement who is light on his feet.
But he seems very similar to players like, Ramsey, Cazorla, Ozil, Sanchez. More of a diminutive and creative type who won’t offer any more physicality to the side.
He’s a lovely player. But would we spend £30m to bring him to Arsenal right now or go out there and get a beast of a central midfielder who can shut make Arsenal more solid? Schneiderlin, Wanyama, Carvalho etc. We think that you know the answer to that one.
There may be some doubt about Moutinho’s suitability to Arsenal’s current needs but there is no questioning the pedigree of this metronomic midfield talent. Let’s take a look at his highlights. Arsenal fans: necessity or luxury?
