Arsenal’s absent signings

As the 2010/2011 Premier League season approaches Arsenal fans up and down the Country are feeling a little concerned. Last season it was clear the defence and goalkeeper needed some improving, Arsene Wenger said as much at the end of the season as well as saying he wanted to get any signings in quickly. The Colney creche approach means the new 25 man squad regulations have dealt Wenger a strong hand if he chooses to use it, but will he?

With a couple of weeks to go until the start of the season and most of pre-season behind us Arsenal have lost Campbell, Silverstre and Gallas with only Koscielny coming the other way. I don’t know too much about Koscielny other than the fact he comes from a mid table French club, has no European or International experience and doesn’t look like the beast of a defender Arsenal fans have so longer for. It looks like there still isn’t a solution to the Drogba problem, who will most likely be licking his lips when he sets his sights on Arsenal’s new boy. Those who argue he could hit the ground running like Vermaelen need to consider Vermaelen had played in Europe, played International football and performed week in-week out in a spectacular stadium at Ajax. Aside from Koscielny and Vermaelen the only recognisable centre backs are Johan Djourou and Havard Nordtveit. Djourou spent all last season injured and looks to already have a knock this year, expect Wenger to announce he’s like a new signing shortly, he has all the assets needed to be a great player but needs to stay clear of injuries for a period of time, he can only really be considered a 4th choice centre back this year. The last recognisable centre back who could be considered is Havard Nordtveit who spent last season playing defensive midfield for Nuremberg and has performed well as right back for Arsenal this pre-season, he hardly sounds ready to step up just yet. It leads me to conclude that Arsenal need to sign a strong experience centre back who can hit the ground running, Jagielka, Mertesaker and others have been mentioned but Wenger needs to move soon or he could risk blowing another season.