Transfer targets in January

[tigerthesmurf85]

Does anyone know if the loan limit is 2 or 3 players in the Premier League?

[Cripps_orig]

Barcelona are allegedly planning a bid for Arsenal striker Robin van Persie, according to reports.
Full story: Caughtoffside.com

Bye

[Japan Shaking All Over]

Ere we go again :doh:

(Isnt there a smilie that means :tossers:?)

[Cripps_orig]

Andrey Arshavin appears to be closer than ever to leaving Arsenal after dropping behind Yossi Benayoun and Tomas Rosicky in the pecking order, with Chelsea among the clubs who could be keen on him.
Full story: Metro

Arsene Wenger has refused to confirm or deny rumours that Arsenal legend Thierry Henry could make a return to the club on a short-term loan deal.
Full story: Talksport

Arsenal will only make loan signings this January but are preparing a £30m summer spending spree on Lukas Podolski, Juan Vargas and Yoann Gourcuff.
Full story: Footy Bunker

Manager Arsene Wenger is set to consider offers for Arsenal trio Marouane Chamakh, Andrey Arshavin and Sebastien Squillaci as he looks to make way for possible additions to his squad next month.
Full story: Caught Offside

Chelsea :lol: if true

No thanks to Henry

Dont need them in the summer. We need them in January.

Bye

[Olivier's xmas twist]

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has once again played down his interest in Lyon star Yoann Gourcuff and has now dismissed reports of a bid to sign the playmaker on loan.

Lyon chairman Jean-Michel Aulas has previously claimed the Premier League club attempted to sign the playmaker at the end of the summer transfer window.

And reports have continued to suggest Wenger will renew his interest in Gourcuff in January, despite the Gunners boss earlier in December claiming he is looking for defenders or forwards.

Wenger is content with his midfield options, especially with England star Jack Wilshere and France international Abou Diaby expected to return from injury in 2012.

Evolution
Asked about a possible loan deal, Wenger told L'Equipe: "No. In midfield I have Wilshere and Diaby, who will be back, and that would mean a lot of players."

Wenger, though, remains an admirer of Gourcuff and will continue to monitor the 25-year-old's return to form in the second half of the season after ankle surgery in July.

"I see his evolution in a positive way," Wenger said. "He is back from a long injury that put him away from the pitch for five months.

"He needs time to come back. That is typical. From January to May, he has time to get back to his best."

Wenger has been linked with an attempt to re-sign Arsenal legend Thierry Henry on a short-term loan, but he suggested on Tuesday that a deal was not close.

.

http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11670/7399039/Wenger-rules-out-Gourcuff-loan

[Cripps_orig]

Wenger :doh:

Wont buy a CM cos of Diaby who is injury prone and shit and Wilshere who wont be at his best 2013 at the earliest especially as he wont have the summer off.

[Power n Glory]

I see Wenger’s point. With players coming back, he has to weigh up the risk. Gourcuff is recovering from injury so I doubt he’d be any better than Jack or Diaby for the last few months of the season.

I think Wenger should consider buying wingbacks. With Jenkinson, Sagna and Gibbs out...we’re suffering. But it all depends on how long they are out for.

Also, I can’t see him spending major money on a striker that will sit on the bench. Poldoski would be a good addition because he can takeover from Gervinho or move to the centre if RVP needs a rest. But I can’t see Wenger spending big money on a player when he’s just bought Gervinho and has Ryo and Park as an option. I don’t think he’s going to spend in January. Park, Ryo and Ox were probably meant for this half of the season. It’s funny, been playing Fifa 12 and the January transfer window has just closed. I ended up buying no one because I couldn’t justify paying £20 odd million for a bench player or ‘killing’ players like Ryo, Ox and Ramsey. :lol:

[Cripps_orig]

Ryo and Park are hardly options.

Bought for marketing reasons only. Both are extremely shite and shouldnt be anywhere near the pitch. And also Wenger said he wont bring in any CM not just Gourcuff. We desperately need some creativity

[Olivier's xmas twist]

Montpellier owner Louis Nicollin has ruled out selling Olivier Giroud to Newcastle United after claiming the club are 'too small' for the striker.

Giroud is reportedly a target for Newcastle in the January transfer window as Alan Pardew seeks to boost his attack after a move for Sochaux's Modibo Maiga collapsed.

France international Giroud has been in impressive form in Ligue 1 this season and has also been linked with the likes of Arsenal and Malaga.

Nicollin is unsure whether Arsenal are interested in Giroud due to Gunners captain Robin van Persie's sensational run of goals, but does not believe the 25-year-old should join Newcastle.

The Montpellier supremo also dismissed speculation that the club would be prepared to sell Giroud for a fee in the region of €10million (£8.3m) in the January transfer window.

"Newcastle? They are too small for him," Nicollin told RTL.

"Arsenal? We must see if Arsene Wenger is interested because he has Van Persie.

"€10m? He won't go for that.

"Given that he still has more than two years left on his contract, he'll cost a lot more, either €50m (£41.7m) or €60m (£50m)."

http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11670/7398742/Magpies-too-small-for-Giroud

LMAO only city would pay that

[Cripps_orig]

Montpellier (http://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/2896/premier-league/2011/12/28/2821225/montpellier-president-louis-nicollin-dismisses-newcastle-as) president Louis Nicollin believes that Newcastle United (http://www.goal.com/en-gb/teams/england/99/newcastle) are not a big enough club to attract Olivier Giroud (http://www.goal.com/en-gb/people/france/33491/olivier-giroud), while insisting Arsenal (http://www.goal.com/en-gb/teams/england/94/arsenal) will have to stump up at least £42 million if they want to land the much-coveted striker.

Magpies boss Alan Pardew has stated that he would like to strengthen his forward line during the January transfer window and is said to be keen on Giroud, while the Gunners (http://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/2896/premier-league/2011/12/28/2821225/montpellier-president-louis-nicollin-dismisses-newcastle-as#) are also reportedly tracking the 25-year-old and are rumoured to be readying a bid of £8.4m.

However, Nicollin believes that Newcastle (http://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/2896/premier-league/2011/12/28/2821225/montpellier-president-louis-nicollin-dismisses-newcastle-as#) have absolutely no chance of landing the player, while the north London outfit will have to significantly increase their offer if they are to persuade Giroud to move to the Emirates.

"Newcastle? They are too small for him," Nicollin told RTL. "Arsenal? You would have to see if Arsene Wenger is interested but, as before, there is Robin van Persie.

"And at £8.4m? No. Given that he still has more than two years left on his contract, it will cost more. He has a contract until 2014, [so] £42 or £52m at least."

Giroud, who has been capped twice by France, has scored 13 goals in 18 appearances for Montpellier in Ligue 1 this season.

http://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/2896/premier-league/2011/12/28/2821225/montpellier-president-louis-nicollin-dismisses-newcastle-as

£42m for a nobody at a Pub Team? :lol:

[Power n Glory]

Ryo and Park are hardly options.

Bought for marketing reasons only. Both are extremely shite and shouldnt be anywhere near the pitch. And also Wenger said he wont bring in any CM not just Gourcuff. We desperately need some creativity


I don’t think anyone has seen enough of Park or Ryo to make a firm judgement. The one goal that Park did score was taken very well and when I saw him at the Emirates and he had a crack on goal, he looked like the type of striker that could worry defenders. He at least knows how to shoot. Ryo also looked very quick and when he came on for a sub as well. But, it’s way too early to say if they’re good or bad players. I’m curious to see what they can offer and January would be the right time to introduce them.

From what I’ve seen of them on Youtube as well, they look like players with pace, energy and suit our style of play. Not sure why Wenger hasn’t introduced them but I doubt it has anything to do their quality. I just think he has a strict pecking order and it’s why Arshavin and Chamakh keep getting games ahead of everyone else. Ox was lucky enough to start a few games and make an early impression. But he hasn’t started a game in months. People would be saying the same thing about the Ox if hadn’t have gotten off to a bright start.

[AKBapologist]

And people say city style spending has caused no inflation what so ever and has had nothing to do with our ability above average players for reasonable prices...

[Power n Glory]

And people say city style spending has caused no inflation what so ever and has had nothing to do with our ability above average players for reasonable prices...


Didn’t cost an arm and a leg to bring in players like Merts, Arteta, Santos, Park, Gervinho.....stay away from players that are on the big boys hit list and we can still find a few gems.

All everyone has asked for is more signings like these and past signings. More like Vermaelen, Sagna, Eduardo and Hleb. They’re all around the £10m mark. Nasri and Arshavin were players that slipped under the big boys radars and we got them for cut down fees compared to what we’d have paid if City or Chelsea were involved. I compare those two signings to how we got Rosicky. It’s still possible to get good players at a reasonable price. Just stay away from the guys involved in bidding wars. That’s always been our strategy since Wenger arrived.

[Joker]

Didn’t cost an arm and a leg to bring in players like Merts, Arteta, Santos, Park, Gervinho.....stay away from players that are on the big boys hit list and we can still find a few gems.

All everyone has asked for is more signings like these and past signings. More like Vermaelen, Sagna, Eduardo and Hleb. They’re all around the £10m mark. Nasri and Arshavin were players that slipped under the big boys radars and we got them for cut down fees compared to what we’d have paid if City or Chelsea were involved. I compare those two signings to how we got Rosicky. It’s still possible to get good players at a reasonable price. Just stay away from the guys involved in bidding wars. That’s always been our strategy since Wenger arrived.

Exactly, this is why the argument that "Oh, City have distorted the market" doesn't wash. We could easily have brought in more players like Sagna, Vermaelen etc, and we'd have been a lot more competitive for it.

[AKBapologist]

Oh now suddenly AW transfers stratergy has been spot on?

The player above is exactly the type of player AW would have had no problem signing 10 years ago.

[Cripps_orig]

Barcelona starlet Isaac Cuenca could start a Premier league bidding war as he stalls on a new contract, with Arsenal and Chelsea reported to be monitoring the situation.
The 20-year-old is one of the recent graduates from Barca's famed La Masia academy but his current deal ends in the summer and he is free to speak to other clubs in the New Year.
The attacker has scored two La Liga goals in five appearances this season and hit a brace in the 9-0 win over L'Hospitalet in the Copa del Rey before Christmas.
Cuenca has been earmarked as a possible replacement for David Villa, who is out with a broken leg, but his refusal to sign a new deal has surprised the club.
The former Reus man is believed to be unhappy with the wages the Catalan club have offered him, something that would not be a problem for Chelsea.
Arsenal are also said to be aware of the Spain Under-21 star's situation as they have a history of signing Barca youngsters, the most notable being Cesc Fabregas, as well as Hector Bellerin and Jon Toral more recently.

http://www.talksport.co.uk/sports-news/football/premier-league/transfer-rumours/1414/26/arsenal-and-chelsea-keeping-tabs-barcelona-contract-rebel

Stop going after Barca players

[Power n Glory]

Oh now suddenly AW transfers stratergy has been spot on?

The player above is exactly the type of player AW would have had no problem signing 10 years ago.

Where did you get that from and what are you reading? Most people on here said years ago that we'd welcome more experienced players like Sagna and Veramaelen over inexperienced players that are 3-4 years away from being ready. These are the type of players we'd have no problem signing and as seen on deadline day, we snapped up 4 players so quickly, they looked like panic buys. The fees weren't huge either.

[Marc Overmars]

Where did you get that from and what are you reading? Most people on here said years ago that we'd welcome more experienced players like Sagna and Veramaelen over inexperienced players that are 3-4 years away from being ready. These are the type of players we'd have no problem signing and as seen on deadline day, we snapped up 4 players so quickly, they looked like panic buys. The fees weren't huge either.

Vinger always makes it sound like signing players is the hardest job in the world. Yet when his reputation and possibly job was on the line, he pulled off some great coups.

[Grebbo]

The big risk is if we genuinely want to sign top quality then we have to do it in January and possibly pay over the odds.

The reason is that we're not favourites to finish fourth and if we don't then you can kiss goodbye to signing any top quality in the summer. You can also kiss goodbye to RVP.

This is the second most important transfer window of Wenger's career. Last summer being the most important.

[Cripps_orig]

Ideally we'll have new players in before the Man Utd game but it'll be like it was in the summer. Any buying will be done in the last week/day of January and by then we'll be out of the race for top 4

[Syn]

I see Wenger’s point. With players coming back, he has to weigh up the risk. Gourcuff is recovering from injury so I doubt he’d be any better than Jack or Diaby for the last few months of the season.

I think Wenger should consider buying wingbacks. With Jenkinson, Sagna and Gibbs out...we’re suffering. But it all depends on how long they are out for.

Also, I can’t see him spending major money on a striker that will sit on the bench. Poldoski would be a good addition because he can takeover from Gervinho or move to the centre if RVP needs a rest. But I can’t see Wenger spending big money on a player when he’s just bought Gervinho and has Ryo and Park as an option. I don’t think he’s going to spend in January. Park, Ryo and Ox were probably meant for this half of the season. It’s funny, been playing Fifa 12 and the January transfer window has just closed. I ended up buying no one because I couldn’t justify paying £20 odd million for a bench player or ‘killing’ players like Ryo, Ox and Ramsey. :lol:

Ditto.

I'm pretty sure Wenger is not making any significant signings in January (and by 'significant signings' I mean players who will go straight into the first team and start games regularly). I understand it's quite difficult in January too. But I also agree with MOe that - if he feels forced into making a strong signing, he'll do it...similar to Arshavin. He just doesn't feel as if he has to. I still think we'll get 4th without making any signings but it's a bit annoying that it seems to be the limit of our ambition. (And before any pedant (Letters) says anything - of course we would prefer to finish 1st rather than 4th but I think the club's goal is '1st would be brilliant but 4th would be pretty good'...and we are not prepared to sacrifice a lot to move from 'pretty good' to 'brilliant'.

At the moment all the noises seem to hint that it'll be a boring transfer window for us. The usual stuff of 'if an opportunity comes up, I'll look into it' doesn't strike me as a statement of intent. An opportunity won't magically appear on your lap - you have to go looking for it. We aren't. We've got what we've got and lets hope it's enough.

[Power n Glory]

If Wenger feels we have the resources in the current squad, then imo he should consider playing a new formation. Right now it looks like we are running out of gas. When Wilshere and Diaby get back, maybe the shape of the squad will naturally change, but right now, i feel as if we should be playing a 4-4-1-1 with Arshavin playing behind RVP and Ramsey making way.

Right now, it looks like we're playing a 4-3-3 with two defensive midfielders in Arteta and Song while Ramsey plays ahead of them as a central mid. I feel we need a more creative player playing closer to the final third and linking up with the front three players. Ramsey is too erratic, not sharp enough and can't play sneaky through balls to the front players on the edge of the box. RVP is too dependent on Gerv and Walcott for assists. Maybe if Arteta took a more commanding role in the centre Ramsey could push up more but right now, i feel as if there is too much of a gap between the midfield and the front three. When the ball goes wide and Theo or Gerv are cutting the ball back to the edge of the box, none of the three are getting on the end of ut and popping off shots. It needs to be looked into. I suppose if we played Arshavin, Rosicky or Wilshere in a more attacking midfield role, we'd get more joy. Just my thoughts anyway.

If Wenger doesn't buy, i hope he tries some fresh ideas. I think we could get a lot more out of certain players.

[Grebbo]

Why are you even talking about Diaby? He's constantly injured or shit.

[Cripps_orig]

Arsenal are believed to have offered former striker and current New York Red Bulls frontman Thierry Henry a two-month loan deal.
Full story: Daily Mail
Newcastle have been deemed "too small" to sign Montpellier striker Olivier Giroud, while Arsenal have been quoted £42m for the French 25-year-old.
Full story: Metro
Greek giants Olympiacos are believed to be interested in signing Manchester United goalkeeper Tomasz Kuszczak and Arsenal midfielder Tomas Rosicky.
Full story: Daily Mirror

Henry and Giroud can fuck off. Keep Rosicky

[Power n Glory]

Why are you even talking about Diaby? He's constantly injured or shit.

Yes, that whole post was about Diaby.

[Cripps_orig]

The point is a valid one.

Diaby cant be relied on to be fit or stay fit and even if a miracle happens and he does stay fit, hes shit anyway. He should not be used as a reason for us to not buy a CM by Wenger or anyone

[Syn]

John Cross is off on one again - says a 2 month deal has been offered to Henry.

[Master Splinter]

I hope John Cross' success rate doesn't improve.

[Power n Glory]

The point is a valid one.

Diaby cant be relied on to be fit or stay fit and even if a miracle happens and he does stay fit, hes shit anyway. He should not be used as a reason for us to not buy a CM by Wenger or anyone

No it's not. It really shows how negative and narrow minded some of you are when it comes to Arsenal and discussing issues on GW. I mentioned Diaby once on that post and the overall post is about Wenger trying something different with the squad if he won't buy. Instead of tackling that, you've chosen to pick a name and start bashing th player. Hasn't that been done to death? It's like the overall point went right out of the window because certain posters can't see past their dislike for one player even though several were mentioned and the individual player was never te focus. Not point in debating with such folk because they see what they want to see and ignore stuff.

[Japan Shaking All Over]

I reckon he will buy. . .a loan move for Henry would not be stupid but would be if not coupled with the purchase of another goal scoring threat and the more I hear Poldoski mentioned , the more I like the sound of that move as the cover at striker is no way strong enough. . .eveb if Chamakh were to stay.

Gervs for me as been a good addition and given us a realer threat out wide than imitation wide play Theo delivers, but tbf I think Theo has got better since Gervs arrival. However the guy is off to the ANC so we will need cover but I dont see AW going into the market for that. . .Hazard is a dream that wont happen, his arrival would mean the delay in anothers chance. . .we may be best advised to keep our limited resources for other positions. . .

Wing back/FB? cant see this happening either, fully fit the squad has enough there. . .only Gibbs is expendable due to his history of injuries. . .however that would mean sticking with the 4 CBs. . .a risky ploy but one I can see Wenger sticking too. . this situation could be where our season sinks or swims. DJ especially is not comfortable there no matter how hard he tries, against lower teams we can just about cope but cime Manyoo I will be shitting bricks because I think we wete lucky against the Chavs that they didnt get at him nore. But if we buy, what to do when everyone is fit? I dont think its a case of buying cheap ala Jenko, not at this stage of the season and tbh I thibk we were lucky how he stepped into the position.

CB, there may have been a call at that position but that was when there were queztion marks over 1) TV5's fitness and 2) Kos's general worth. . .IMO both concerns have been put to bed but a long term injury could see us return to this position. Merts has got better and better and is starting to settle in completely and doesnt seem to over rely on his partner as much before.

The midfied centre would be another area that could do with a look at. . .although I imagine that Jacks return will be treated with the 'like a new signing' spin. I think we missed out by not going for Witschel. . .I missed the news he had moved to Benfica and was surprised when he turned out in the CL, playing well to boot and for fucking 7 mil. . .would have been a great signing!

Anyway PnG sorey mate, it may not be the debate answer you were looking for but its a bit of what I think. . .we need to make the stronger give it more depth. . .I CAN understand when he argues that he already has players but there are often worries that although we have the numbers, the quality is not what it should be. . .in that case then we should buy in to recifty that and to provide competition to those already here

[Young Guns 11]

Think its pretty much inevitable that we'll sign Henry on a short-term loan deal.

Can't wait to see him out there again.

Thierry:bow:

[Power n Glory]

I reckon he will buy. . .a loan move for Henry would not be stupid but would be if not coupled with the purchase of another goal scoring threat and the more I hear Poldoski mentioned , the more I like the sound of that move as the cover at striker is no way strong enough. . .eveb if Chamakh were to stay.

Gervs for me as been a good addition and given us a realer threat out wide than imitation wide play Theo delivers, but tbf I think Theo has got better since Gervs arrival. However the guy is off to the ANC so we will need cover but I dont see AW going into the market for that. . .Hazard is a dream that wont happen, his arrival would mean the delay in anothers chance. . .we may be best advised to keep our limited resources for other positions. . .

Wing back/FB? cant see this happening either, fully fit the squad has enough there. . .only Gibbs is expendable due to his history of injuries. . .however that would mean sticking with the 4 CBs. . .a risky ploy but one I can see Wenger sticking too. . this situation could be where our season sinks or swims. DJ especially is not comfortable there no matter how hard he tries, against lower teams we can just about cope but cime Manyoo I will be shitting bricks because I think we wete lucky against the Chavs that they didnt get at him nore. But if we buy, what to do when everyone is fit? I dont think its a case of buying cheap ala Jenko, not at this stage of the season and tbh I thibk we were lucky how he stepped into the position.

CB, there may have been a call at that position but that was when there were queztion marks over 1) TV5's fitness and 2) Kos's general worth. . .IMO both concerns have been put to bed but a long term injury could see us return to this position. Merts has got better and better and is starting to settle in completely and doesnt seem to over rely on his partner as much before.

The midfied centre would be another area that could do with a look at. . .although I imagine that Jacks return will be treated with the 'like a new signing' spin. I think we missed out by not going for Witschel. . .I missed the news he had moved to Benfica and was surprised when he turned out in the CL, playing well to boot and for fucking 7 mil. . .would have been a great signing!

Anyway PnG sorey mate, it may not be the debate answer you were looking for but its a bit of what I think. . .we need to make the stronger give it more depth. . .I CAN understand when he argues that he already has players but there are often worries that although we have the numbers, the quality is not what it should be. . .in that case then we should buy in to recifty that and to provide competition to those already here

No that's cool and makes sense to me. If you think we need to add more depth to the squad then that's fair enough. But I can't see Wenger adding many more players in January. Player competition is a rare thing for a Wenger team. If he buys a back up player, it's likely to be a young kid that's happy to wait on the bench.

[Marc Overmars]

Merts was talking up Podolski in the papers today.

I think he'd fit in really well on the left side of 4-3-3, like Gerv has on the right. We'd then have 2 naturals on either flank, with RVP in the centre of course. Theo can be rotated with them as well.

[Coney]

Think its pretty much inevitable that we'll sign Henry on a short-term loan deal.

Can't wait to see him out there again.

Thierry:bow:

If he can do a couple of months and show the others where the bloody goal is, that can't hurt. And if he ends up as the second top goal scorer in the PL behind RvP, that would be neat. : dreamon.gif:

[Cripps_orig]

No it's not. It really shows how negative and narrow minded some of you are when it comes to Arsenal and discussing issues on GW. I mentioned Diaby once on that post and the overall post is about Wenger trying something different with the squad if he won't buy. Instead of tackling that, you've chosen to pick a name and start bashing th player. Hasn't that been done to death? It's like the overall point went right out of the window because certain posters can't see past their dislike for one player even though several were mentioned and the individual player was never te focus. Not point in debating with such folk because they see what they want to see and ignore stuff.Im not knocking your post. I didnt even read it but the Diaby point is valid. He shouldnt be used as a reason to not buy a player.

[selassie]

Merts was talking up Podolski in the papers today.

I think he'd fit in really well on the left side of 4-3-3, like Gerv has on the right. We'd then have 2 naturals on either flank, with RVP in the centre of course. Theo can be rotated with them as well.

Yep, I like Podolski, I think he would be a success here. It would be a signing of intent too...an established international approaching his prime.

[Joker]

I'd prefer Podolski to Henry tbh, although ideally we'd get someone a bit more consistent. However, at least Podolski's in the prime of his career, so it won't simply be a short term fix if we get him.

[Ollie the Optimist]

Think its pretty much inevitable that we'll sign Henry on a short-term loan deal.

Can't wait to see him out there again.

Thierry:bow:

the king :bow:


on a serious note, who would you rather come off the bench to score a goal when needed? chamakh or henry? know which one i want so happy he is likely to return. hopefully he does as well as sol did on his comeback

[McNamara That Ghost...]

I'd rather have a Fruit Corner coming on in place of Chakma for a goal.

[RomfordPele]

Podolski AND Henry would be ideal - it needn't be an either/or. Reality with Wenger is that this will only happen if we somehow get shot of Chamakh and Fatso, which I can't see happening in January.

[GP]

I'd rather have a Fruit Corner coming on in place of Chakma for a goal.

What about a Mullerice?

[McNamara That Ghost...]

What about a Mullerice? I dunno, they can go hot or cold.

[Japan Shaking All Over]

If the talk is to be believed about Henry then even Wenger is not stupid to consider him to be the answer to our problems as
we can only have him for 2 months and that doesnt take us to the end of the season

So I believe that we could see Wenger bring in Henry plus one other, Poldolski

This is a really good move. . .Henry will bring a lot to the team and someone like Poldolski would bring a player with a good rep that can play with or replace RvP

[Cripps_orig]

Arsenal are monitoring Abdelaziz Barrada, having been impressed with his storming start to life in the senior team at Getafe.
The Moroccan midfielder graduated from Getafe B in the summer and made his debut for the club's seniors in August and he has since caught the eye in La Liga.
Barrada, born in France, has scored four goals in 11 appearances for Morocco's Under-23s and clubs across Europe have been present at Getafe's matches this season.
Arsene Wenger is unlikely to enter the market for the 22-year-old in January but it is understood he will bide his time and continue to watch Barrada this season, with a view to a potential summer move.

http://www.talksport.co.uk/sports-news/football/premier-league/transfer-rumours/1416/35/arsenal-plot-summer-move-getafe-star

Hope hes as good as the last Moroccan we got

[Ollie the Optimist]

Henry likely to sign in next 48 hours.


The king :bow:

[Xhaka Can’t]

I have mixed feelings if this is the case.

The Henry of today is not that of his prime.

[Cripps_orig]

Wenger going for the cheap ass option again :doh:

[Syn]

He should sign at 00:00 at 01/01/12. This year has been an absolute abortion.

Nice article about the difference in Henry from when he left here: http://www.guardian.co.uk/football/blog/2011/dec/29/thierry-henry-arsenal
(http://www.guardian.co.uk/football/blog/2011/dec/29/thierry-henry-arsenal)

[dazthegooner]

Wenger going for the cheap ass option again :doh:

would love Wenger to make a massive signing but we all know what he's like he mostly looks at a player considers signing him then someone else does before we can do anything about it (well thats the way I see it) :(

[Ollie the Optimist]

I have mixed feelings if this is the case.

The Henry of today is not that of his prime.

yes and no. we said that about sol campbell when he resigned. wenger had in training since november and seen him everyday and then we were all wanting him to be signed up for the next season.

merts ahs said henry still got it and there are times in the MLS, where he shows he has still got it with some great goals. he wont be as great as he was, but he will do a better job then fat fuck and chamakh put together. i hope htough wenger signs more but this signing is one im pleased about, because the king is back

[Japan Shaking All Over]

I have mixed feelings if this is the case.

The Henry of today is not that of his prime.

Agreed but it cant be bad if he is used from the bench, Henry cant expect and surely wont use hom to start!?

[Syn]

I'm sure, in the long run, nobody will remember him because of this spell - unless he does spectacularly well. In his last season, he wasn't very good and nobody remembers him for that.

78th minute, the ball comes to him 15 yards out, he's got more chance of hitting the inside of the side-netting than anyone else. 34 ain't that old.

[Ollie the Optimist]

he wont tarnish his legacy with us unless he does something fucking stupid like demand he is captain, plays the whole time etc etc which he wont. he is a changed man from when he left us. we all know that arsenal is in his heart, you only have to see his speech at the statue to see how much he loves us. he will be happy just playing five minutes if it helps us.


its basically all set up for him to come off the bench, dribble past a few scum players, put the ball in the net in the last minute to win against the scum :cloud9:

[Cripps_orig]

would love Wenger to make a massive signing but we all know what he's like he mostly looks at a player considers signing him then someone else does before we can do anything about it (well thats the way I see it) :(The most annoying thing is, Henry will only be here for 2 months meaning he'll fuck off in March leaving us in a worse position than we are now cos at least now we have a chance of getting someone else in but in 2 months, the window will be shut.

We need much more than Henry and if Wenger thinks this will please fans then hes got another think coming

[dazthegooner]

The most annoying thing is, Henry will only be here for 2 months meaning he'll fuck off in March leaving us in a worse position than we are now cos at least now we have a chance of getting someone else in but in 2 months, the window will be shut.

We need much more than Henry and if Wenger thinks this will please fans then hes got another think coming

Can't disagree with that ok not totally against Henry coming back for 2 months if only to help a new striker to find his feet and not just thrown in at the deepend.

[Ollie the Optimist]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ONnctKXXfJ8&feature=related


this was in october this year. hes still got it

[Cripps_orig]

Can't disagree with that ok not totally against Henry coming back for 2 months if only to help a new striker to find his feet and not just thrown in at the deepend.If we get Henry then Wenger wont get a new striker. Another reason why we shouldnt get him along with him being past it.

[Xhaka Can’t]

His statue would do a better job than Chamakh, but that is no reason to sign it.

[Young Guns 11]

His statue would do a better job than Chamakh, but that is no reason to sign it.

Can't really see the problem here. The sensible fans know that Wenger is highly unlikely to sign a player in jan for the long term, so what's the problem with bringing back Henry on the short term?

[Cripps_orig]

Can't really see the problem here. The sensible fans know that Wenger is highly unlikely to sign a player in jan for the long term, so what's the problem with bringing back Henry on the short term?Its for 2 months. Not even til the end of the season. Id have no problem getting him or someone in til the end of the season but i dont see the point in bringing him in for only 2 months and then going back to where we are now with RVP leading the line and shite ass back up. Plus Henry himself isnt that good anymore

[Young Guns 11]

Its for 2 months. Not even til the end of the season. Id have no problem getting him or someone in til the end of the season but i dont see the point in bringing him in for only 2 months and then going back to where we are now with RVP leading the line and shite ass back up. Plus Henry himself isnt that good anymore

I see your point, but this signing isn't just about the football on the pitch, I'm thinking Wenger also see's it as a good opportunity for the younger players, experience etc.

Oh and i'm sure it hasn't slipped his mind how this will undoubtedly boost ticket sales!

[-Xs-]

I see your point, but this signing isn't just about the football on the pitch, I'm thinking Wenger also see's it as a good opportunity for the younger players, experience etc.

Oh and i'm sure it hasn't slipped his mind how this will undoubtedly boost ticket sales!

Or the boards :coffee:

[Marc Overmars]

Thumbs up for Wenger from me on this.

Makes sense to get Henry back for a couple of months, I really don't see what harm this can do. Obviously I hope he is still looking for a longer term option (Podolski :pray:) but in terms of adding another option to the attack, whilst Chamakh and Gervinho go away, then it's a smart move.

Plus purely for the novelty factor it's awesome.

Henry. :bow:

[Olivier's xmas twist]

Its for 2 months. Not even til the end of the season. Id have no problem getting him or someone in til the end of the season but i dont see the point in bringing him in for only 2 months and then going back to where we are now with RVP leading the line and shite ass back up. Plus Henry himself isnt that good anymore

Don't think he will be coming alone tbh, Think he will be here to lift the team and show the other stikers how to be deadly. It will be really good to see Theo learning from the king tbh.

[Marc Overmars]

Also - Wenger is not one for sentiment. I think he's watched Henry in training, assessed him and fully believes he can still cut it.

Sure he's well past it, but you don't lose that class. I bet he can still pick passes for fun and if a chance falls to him, he will take it.

[Cripps_orig]

He picked Pires in the CL final for sentiment....

If we get Henry, we arent getting another striker in January so unless Chamakh is over his year long blip and Gervinho has stopped being a flop when they come back from the ANC then we'll be in the same situation as we are now when Henry leaves.

Id love Podolski here. Been a fan of his for years. Best left foot in the business

[Olivier's xmas twist]

AW is not a silly man, he will know Henry will be a sub more or less, unless its the fa cup. Even though henry playing against the likes of the mancs and home and the scum will put shilvers down their spines.

It will be weird to have henry back with somone else wearing the no 14 shirt.

[Olivier's xmas twist]

He picked Pires in the CL final for sentiment....

If we get Henry, we arent getting another striker in January so unless Chamakh is over his year long blip and Gervinho has stopped being a flop when they come back from the ANC then we'll be in the same situation as we are now when Henry leaves.Id love Podolski here. Been a fan of his for years. Best left foot in the business

And you know henry is coming alone how, Its obvious he wants Paldolski and its highly likely he will be coming here.

[Cripps_orig]

And you know henry is coming alone how, Its obvious he wants Paldolski and its highly likely he will be coming here.Cos ive been watching Arsenal for more than 5 minutes and Wenger wouldnt want to bring in another striker along with Henry cos it will kill Chamakh, Park, other Pub Team strikers we have

[Marc Overmars]

He picked Pires in the CL final for sentiment....

If we get Henry, we arent getting another striker in January so unless Chamakh is over his year long blip and Gervinho has stopped being a flop when they come back from the ANC then we'll be in the same situation as we are now when Henry leaves.

Id love Podolski here. Been a fan of his for years. Best left foot in the business

I agree with you. It's the shortest of short term solutions, we all know Henry for 2 months is not really adequate. We have a month to sign Podolski (or another striker) so I'm just happy to wait and see what happens. Obviously I will be disappointed if no one else comes in.

[Olivier's xmas twist]

Cos ive been watching Arsenal for more than 5 minutes and Wenger wouldnt want to bring in another striker along with Henry cos it will kill Chamakh, Park, other Pub Team strikers we have

Since Chamakh will probs be sold in Jan anyways and park well who knows when he will be ready, Wenger knows a world class stiker is needed Long term lets hope he brings henry plus one in.

He does sign a few in jan tbf.

[Syn]

http://www.mirrorfootball.co.uk/transfer-news/New-York-Red-Bulls-Theirry-Henry-in-special-training-to-make-Arsenal-return-article847025.html

[selassie]

Bringing in Henry for a short spell can't do any harm, he's experienced, loves the club, is an Arsenal Legend and probably still has the vision to pick a pass. Sol did OK on his return I reckon Titi will be fine too. Anyway we have only got 1 striker at the Club at present so what's the harm in adding to the numbers?
I'm hoping Henry is part of Wengers January shopping and not the whole......who knows?

[Master Splinter]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ONnctKXXfJ8&feature=related




This guy looks good on YouTube.

A Must Get.

[Japan Shaking All Over]

@Cripps
I'm with you if it transpires that TH12 is the only striker business AW does over Jan. . .and in fact he was only signed to be cover for Chamakh!
but because I feel AW will go after more than Henry then I cant side with you, the point you keep stressing that the deal can only be 2 months should be reason enough to give us hope that more are to come!

Its not a bad deal. . .the guy will give the squad a boost/experience/steel and I bet he gets at 5+ goals at least one of particular importance (manyoo/spuds winner :pray:

[Unai Tea]

Henry will provide more as a backup striker than anyone else has so far provided this year. I also don't think we'll sign another striker in January unless someone is desperate for Chamakh and Arshavin or an opportunity presents itself which Wenger feels he can't pass up. I think the plan is to get by with what we have, use Henry to cover for the absence of Chamakh and Gervinho, and work in Oxlade-Chamberlain and Park Chu Young. With any luck we can shift Squillaci and add a versatile CB-LB ala Jan Vertonghen. It seemed pretty clear that had a buyer materialised in the summer Squillaci would have been happily gift-wrapped and hand delivered. Alas, buyers were aware and none materialised.

In the summer we will definitely be rid of Chamakh and Arshavin, as well as Bendtner, Denilson, Vela and all the other chaps who offered little besides promise over the last few years. I think another striker in the summer is more likely when we've cleared that lot out. We might also lose Rosicky and Benayoun and adding another experienced creator in midfield also makes sense in the summer. I do think that Coquelin will require a space in the rotation next year, he's progressing well. I think if we lose Diaby as well as Rosicky/Benayoun we might even add two to the midfield.

[McNamara That Ghost...]

On another note, this will be third season in a row that we've brought back a player from the 03/04 team. Cygan next season?

[McNamara That Ghost...]

Wenger has confirmed this is a formality now (not Cygan, Henry). SSN.

Henry. :bow:

Always rated him tbf.

[Boss]

Return of the King :bow: :bow: :bow:

[McNamara That Ghost...]

A fee has been agreed between Bolton and Chelsea for Gary Cahill. SSN.

Cahill. :lol:

[GP]

AVB :haha:

[RomfordPele]

Good stuff re Henry - if nothing else, it'll make the next couple of months nostalgic.

Just need Podolski, Gotze and Vertonghen and it will be a fantastic January. :livinginafuckingdreamworld.gif:

[Japan Shaking All Over]

A fee has been agreed between Bolton and Chelsea for Gary Cahill. SSN.

Cahill. :lol:

And it will probably be the same amount that Coyle told us to go and do one at. . .and Joker said we should sack Wenger for, as he was embarrassing the club!

Although I dont think Cahill is a bad player, he is just playing in a crap team. . .never for 17 mil tho!
Alex on the cheap in that case?

[Arsenal Fan]

wait why is this funny?

[Cripps_orig]

We should go in for Cahill

Not better than Mert or Verm but better than the rest and with our injuries, he'll get his fair share of games

[Dentonboy]

Posted on Twitter by our own LiberoFootball;

"Report: Arsenal bid for 'El Loco' Juan Vargas."

Rumours we were after him in the Summer I recall.

Can he play LB/LM?

£12-14m.

http://elbocon.pe/nota.php?t=arsenal-oficializa-oferta-de-14-millones-por-elloco-vargas&sid=87&id=664472

[GP]

And it will probably be the same amount that Coyle told us to go and do one at. . .and Joker said we should sack Wenger for, as he was embarrassing the club!

Although I dont think Cahill is a bad player, he is just playing in a crap team. . .never for 17 mil tho!
Alex on the cheap in that case?

It's reportedly about 5 or 6 million.

Our £14m bid ain't so bad now is it, Gartside?

[Syn]

If they're going to insist on playing John Terry, then getting Cahill is not the right move (And not just because he's white).

[Olivier's xmas twist]

A fee has been agreed between Bolton and Chelsea for Gary Cahill. SSN.

Cahill. :lol:

Arry :pal:
Sperz :pal:
Luiz :pal:

Looks like Alex will deffo be going now.

[Olivier's xmas twist]

We should go in for
Jan vertonghen Much better than Mert, Not Verm and better than the rest and with our injuries, he'll get his fair share of games

:gp:

[Olivier's xmas twist]

Chelsea boss Andre Villas-Boas has revealed the club are struggling to agree personal terms with Gary Cahill, saying they are 'miles apart'.
Bolton confirmed on Friday that they had agreed terms with the West London giants in a deal believed to be worth around £5million.
Cahill (http://topics.skysports.com/Gary+Cahill/?section=football)http://static.lingospot.com/spot/image/spacer.gif has already held talks with Chelsea, (http://topics.skysports.com/chelsea/?section=football)http://static.lingospot.com/spot/image/spacer.gif but Villas-Boas (http://topics.skysports.com/Andre+Villas-Boas/?section=football)http://static.lingospot.com/spot/image/spacer.gif has confirmed that things are not going as well as planned.
"We're still miles apart regarding agreement with the player," he said, warning the Blues (http://topics.skysports.com/blues/?section=football)http://static.lingospot.com/spot/image/spacer.gif had alternative targets.
"We'll continue to monitor this situation as we continue to monitor others."
Villas-Boas was confident, however, an agreement would eventually be reached and hailed the qualities Cahill would bring to Stamford Bridge.
"Gary has been this season involved in a fighting struggle with Bolton and a fight for position in the league," he said.
"I think his technical attributes are immense. His pace is fantastic as well.
"There are weaknesses and they are also related to the collective weaknesses of Bolton.
"He's a player that at international level has been playing well.
"He can add to this squad or any squad in the Premier League."
Villas-Boas revealed midfielder Josh McEachran would not be joining Bolton on loan but could move to another club.



http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11672/7401996/AVB-reveals-Cahill-issues

[Japan Shaking All Over]

It's reportedly about 5 or 6 million.

Our £14m bid ain't so bad now is it, Gartside?

For that price we should go in for him but we wont. . .wages and the game of handbags in the summer will be too much to surpass! Wengers oride :hail:

[GP]

For that price we should go in for him but we wont. . .wages and the game of handbags in the summer will be too much to surpass! Wengers oride :hail:

That and he's shit.

[Japan Shaking All Over]

I agree hes not a grade up on our current defence, but he is on the the way we ended last year and started this. . .

Our defence now is playing well, like how Merts has cime on. . . However Cahill is playing with shit. . .should be playing harder yes but could be good for us given a chance. . .Vertogen woyld be better though

[Master Splinter]

A Luiz and Cahill partnership should be fun.

At least our attacking CB is good at defending too.

[Dennis Bendtner]

Henry still has the composure and finesse, judging from his goals for the Yankees. More importantly, he has balls. Chamakh and Gervais can stay in Africa until they grow some.

This solves very little in terms of what we do when RVP is out. But the knowledge that we have an attacking option that is not a complete cretin on the bench is reassuring.

[Dennis Bendtner]

Arsenal midfielder Emmanuel Frimpong is set to join Wolves on loan until the end of the season.

Talks between the two Premier League clubs are ongoing and a deal is expected to be concluded by Monday.

The 19-year-old has made 14 appearances this season - starting three Premier League matches, three Carling Cup ties and three Champions League games.

He will bolster a Wolves midfield that has lost Jamie O'Hara for a month after undergoing surgery on a double hernia.

Wolves drew 1-1 at Arsenal on Tuesday and sit two points clear of the relegation zone in 17th.

The fifth-place Gunners appear well-stocked in midfield, with Jack Wilshere - who came through the club's youth system with Frimpong - and Abou Diaby working their way back to fitness.

Meanwhile, it is understood the deal to take former Arsenal striker Thierry Henry back to Emirates Stadium in a two-month loan deal from New York Red Bulls is likely to be finalised after Saturday's match against QPR or on Sunday.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/16369898.stm

Already quite mental. Now he'll be playing with Karl Henry.

[Syn]

So I guess that means Coquelin will be Song's back-up for the rest of the season.

First of a few that will probably go on loan. Should be interesting to see what happens to Oxlade and Miyachi. I have a feeling they'll be sent somewhere too but I hope it's in our league. Stoke is the ultimate move, really. Bolton was quite good for Wilshere but we need to send Miyachi to Stoke.

[GP]

No way. Pulis will just try to order some noodles off him.

[Cripps_orig]

Arsenal and Stoke sent scouts to watch Toulouse full-back Aymen Abdennour play for Tunisia against Catalonia in a friendly on Friday.
Full story: insidefutbol.com

Can see this happening.

Ticks all the boxes.

1 - Unknown

2 - Pub Teamer

3 - Playing in France

4 - African

[Niall_Quinn]

Good to have our January business wrapped up before January. So then, onwards to the summer transfer window.

[Master Splinter]

Aymen Abdennour

Sounds like someone mispronouncing Ade's name.

Also, have we signed Biglia yet?

[Kaiser]

The new Hatem Trabelsi?

[milla]

So I guess that means Coquelin will be Song's back-up for the rest of the season.

First of a few that will probably go on loan. Should be interesting to see what happens to Oxlade and Miyachi. I have a feeling they'll be sent somewhere too but I hope it's in our league. Stoke is the ultimate move, really. Bolton was quite good for Wilshere but we need to send Miyachi to Stoke.

Miyachi is just about 6ft tall, perfect fit for Stoke IMO. :coffee:

[Cripps_orig]

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger wants to sign Schalke striker Klaas-Jan Huntelaar and is considering making a £15m bid for the Dutch international during the January transfer window.
Full story: Caughtoffside

Must Get

[Cripps_orig]

For the first time in a while, Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger looks set to spend money in the January transfer window. With the Gunners relying heavily on Robin Van Persie for goals and fellow forwards Marouane Chamakh and Gervinho heading to the African Cup of Nations next month, the north London club are in desperate need of some firing power. Taking into account the injuries to every one of Arsenal’s full-backs and you realise Wenger needs to go shopping. Here, talkSPORT takes a look at what positions the Gunners will be looking to invest in January…

WHERE THEY NEED TO STRENGTHEN
STRIKERS: Fortunately, Robin van Persie’s brilliant form in 2011 has taken the heat off Arsenal’s lack of goal scorers. Marouane Chamakh, who is rumoured to be looking for a move away from the club next year, has only found the back of the net twice since November 2010 and will travel to the African Cup of Nations this month. With the Moroccan’s team-mate Gervinho also heading to the tournament, the Gunners are in desperate need of quality up front. Andrey Arshavin’s lack of form has left Arsenal with an uninspiring bench and a new spark in the dressing room would help Arsene Wenger’s side push for Champions League qualification.

FULL BACK: Injuries to Kieran Gibbs, Andre Santos, Bacary Sagna and Carl Jenkinson have left Arsenal with a desolate looking back four, with defensive midfielders and centre-backs having to fill in at full-back. Thomas Vermaelen and Johan Djourou have both looked relatively comfortable playing out of position, but with the Gunners hectic schedule of FA Cup, Premier League and Champions League fixtures coming up, they need to strengthen the depth of the squad and some specialist full backs would be very welcome indeed.

TRANSFER TARGETS
Thierry Henry will be the first player to join the Gunners on a two-month loan from the MLS. The Arsenal legend will bring some much needed support for Van Persie and should have a positive impact on the dressing room. Reports have suggested the New York Red Bulls forward still has the fitness to play in the Premier League, but some fans are worried their club’s greatest ever striker, could ruin his reputation if he fails to live up to expectations.

Arsenal have also been linked with Cologne striker Lukas Poldolski. The German international is desperate for a move away from the struggling Bundesliga side, but a price tag of around £20million and competition from Liverpool for the 26-year-old makes him an unlikely target for Arsene Wenger, who has rarely spent any money in the January transfer window.

Out-of-favour AC Milan full back Taye Taiwo issued a ‘come get me plea’ after finding himself struggling to get in the Italian side’s first team. Wenger could try and sign the Nigerian, but his recent run of good performances may have increased his price tag. The Gunners boss might consider loan moves for Man City’s Wayne Bridge, or a more permanent and costly bid for Ajax’s Jan Vertonghen.

DREAM SIGNING
Would surely be Lille's brilliant playmaker Eden Hazard. The young Belgian is top of the shopping list of most of Europe's top clubs, which means Arsenal will probably be priced out of the biding. His vision, pace and finishing would add an extra depth to the Gunners forward line and his style would be a perfect match for the slick football of Arsene Wenger's Arsenal.

NEED TO GET RID OF
Sebastien Squallaci, Marouane Chamakh, Andrey Arshavin

BUDGET
The money raised from the sale of Cesc Fabregas and Samir Nasri in the summer leaves Arsenal with a hefty transfer budget of around £30milllion. Wenger is notoriously tight with cash in January, but may spend in 2012 due to the desperation of their league position and the fact they look set to miss out on a Champions League spot.

http://www.talksport.co.uk/magazine/features/2012-01-01/arsenal%E2%80%99s-january-transfer-plans-hazard-henry-bridge-and-more-moves-would-strengthen-gunners

[Niall_Quinn]

Horrific stories about us going for Bridge on loan. No even our board is that fucked up surely?

[Cripps_orig]

Didnt realise the board had anything to do with players coming in.

[Xhaka Can’t]

Maybe they're after a bridging loan.

[Niall_Quinn]

Maybe they're after a bridging loan.

From the fans. Interest free.

[Niall_Quinn]

Didnt realise the board had anything to do with players coming in.

Now you know.

[Japan Shaking All Over]

Maybe they're after a bridging loan.

A Bridge Too Far if you ask me!

[AKBapologist]

http://www.mirrorfootball.co.uk/news/Transfer-news-Arsenal-go-for-Wayne-Bridge-or-Taye-Taiwo-on-loan-article847994.html


And also:
http://www.mirrorfootball.co.uk/transfer-news/Exclusive-Lukas-Podolski-keen-on-Arsenal-switch-article847901.html


Exclusive: Germany star Podolski keen on Arsenal switch
Published 23:00 31/12/11 By Bill Mills (4) Recommend (9)

Germany striker Lukas Podolski remains Arsenal’s top striker target for the January window.

Thierry Henry may already be in the building as a loan signing, but the Gunners’ search for a top line marksman continues and the news leaking out of FC Cologne is good.

There are reports in Germany that Podolski has fallen out with the club’s director of Sport, Volker Finke.

Claus Horstman, Cologne’s managing director, virtually confirmed the rift , saying: “The two don’t have to love each other, but they must respect each other and trust each other,”


The Cologne striker, 26, is keen on a move to the Emirates, but is still waiting for a deal to be struck between the two clubs.

Cologne are aware they will be losing their star player in Podolski, and have slapped a £12.5million rating on him.

It may seem a low fee for an established international striker but his current contract expires in June 2013.

Cologne’s hierarchy have been aware that a series of Arsenal scouts have been watching Podolski over the last few months.

He has struck 14 league goals for Cologne so far this season, and Per Mertesacker, the Arsenal defender who plays alongside Podolski for Germany, has already delivered his personal recommendation.

Mertesacker said: “He is a powerful, great player, especially for the national team.

“He has scored a lot of goals, is a good striker with a very good finish. His left foot is unbelievable and I am a fan of his.’’

Arsenal’s players also witnessed the fact that Podolski won’t be messed around on the pitch. Last summer, when Cologne entertained Arsenal in a pre-season friendly, Podolski was fouled by Arsenal defender Sebastien Squillaci and immediately spun around to confront the French centre-back. (See video below).

Despite attempts by team-mates to pull the duo apart Podolski refused to back down before making his point. It was the kind of controlled aggression that many people believe Arsenal have lacked in recent times.

Podolski’s potential was first acclaimed in the 2004 European Championships. He was the youngest debutant in Germany’s football history when he played for Rudi Voller’s side. And at the 2006 World Cup Podolski was chosen as the biggest emerging talent of the finals, being picked by FIFA ahead of Spain’s Cesc Fabregas, Argentina’s Lionel Messi and Portugal’s Cristiano Ronaldo.

His three goals helped the hosts to reach the semi-finals.

The Gunners’ target was born a Polish citizen near Katowice. His parents moved to Germany when he was two years old and because of their German ancestors the Podolskis were entitled to obtain German passports in 1987.

He started his career at Cologne and his goals earned him a 10million euro move to Bayern Munich in 2006.

But the move wasn’t a huge success and Podolski returned to Cologne in 2009.

[Japan Shaking All Over]

http://www.mirrorfootball.co.uk/news/Transfer-news-Arsenal-go-for-Wayne-Bridge-or-Taye-Taiwo-on-loan-article847994.html


And also:
http://www.mirrorfootball.co.uk/transfer-news/Exclusive-Lukas-Podolski-keen-on-Arsenal-switch-article847901.html


It says 12.5 million. . .now I've seen us lose out in situations like this. . .lets not let it happen again. . .AW this is a no brainer. . .and if we are to take it that we have 30 million in the bank we still have plenty left. . .hope this happens

[Cripps_orig]

We arent getting another striker in

[Japan Shaking All Over]

Still. . .hope it happens as much as I think it should

[Cripps_orig]

Getting another striker in will kill Henry

[Japan Shaking All Over]

God another reason for Henry to plant his death stare on some poor soul?

[Olivier's xmas twist]

http://www.mirrorfootball.co.uk/news/Transfer-news-Arsenal-go-for-Wayne-Bridge-or-Taye-Taiwo-on-loan-article847994.html


And also:
http://www.mirrorfootball.co.uk/transfer-news/Exclusive-Lukas-Podolski-keen-on-Arsenal-switch-article847901.html

Padolski and Tawio would be Alwsome additions tbh.

[Cripps_orig]

Padolski and Tawio would be Alwsome additions tbh.Padolski and Tawio would indeed be alwsome

[Dennis Bendtner]

Must say I only know Podolski from the several international tournaments he's gone ape shit at. 95 caps at the age of 26 is amazing. Doesn't seem like his club career's been very settled. Did he fail at Bayern, and why? He does seem ideal but you're always wary of a trap.

[Marc Overmars]

Yeah he's never really been that amazing at club level, although he has spent the majority of his career with Koln who are a mid table club at best, but he still has a decent scoring record there in general, not quite sure what happened at Bayern though. Henry was a flop at Juve but we all know what happened after, sometimes a player just needs to find the right environment that suits him to succeed.

I'd be really encouraged if we signed him given his ability to play from wide.

[Kaiser]

We'd have the best collection of left footers who can hammer the ball if Podolski signed (along with RVP and Vermaelen).

[Dennis Bendtner]

Yeah he's never really been that amazing at club level, although he has spent the majority of his career with Koln who are a mid table club at best, but he still has a decent scoring record there in general, not quite sure what happened at Bayern though. Henry was a flop at Juve but we all know what happened after, sometimes a player just needs to find the right environment that suits him to succeed.

I'd be really encouraged if we signed him given his ability to play from wide.

Fair. I don't really know enough...but certain details always make you wonder about players' comfort zones. Saying that, someone with his international record might warrant some leeway. I'd be encouraged as well. Someone of that style could do us good, anyway. The way we play now with more emphasis on Walcott and Gervais (and others in those positions), we really need them to be delivering more of a goal threat. Goals like Podolski scored against England and Australia...yes please.

[Niall_Quinn]

Padolski and Tawio would indeed be alwsome

and shit too

[Bergkampwonderland10]

Yeah he's never really been that amazing at club level, although he has spent the majority of his career with Koln who are a mid table club at best, but he still has a decent scoring record there in general, not quite sure what happened at Bayern though. Henry was a flop at Juve but we all know what happened after, sometimes a player just needs to find the right environment that suits him to succeed.

I'd be really encouraged if we signed him given his ability to play from wide.

Think he'd be a great signing for us in Jan. And hopefully at a good price too. Some strikers take a little bit longer to hit their peak - but he looks like he's getting there now. Think he'd do well in our current squad. Would take him over Huntelaar any day.

[AKBapologist]

Any truth in this?
http://www.dailystar.co.uk/football/view/227967/Thierry-Henry-new-Wenger-No-2/?

[McNamara That Ghost...]

http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/16237635.stm

According to that article we're interested in quite a lot of them. :lol:

And on the Henry thing, no I wouldn't have thought as a No.2. Possibly a coach of some description though.

[Bergkampwonderland10]

This guy looks good on YouTube.

A Must Get.

Haha - did the American commentator say 'Half number 2' instead of second half? 'Are you kidding me?' hahaha
Beautiful goal from Henry - fox in the box

[Cripps_orig]

We should try for Ericksen if we cant get Hazard or Goetze

Better than anyone we have atm

[Bergkampwonderland10]

We should try for Ericksen if we cant get Hazard or Goetze

Better than anyone we have atm
I'd take anyone recommended by Bergkamp. Hefty price tag though for a 19yr old. Don't think Ajax would be too plsd if we took Vertonghen and Eriksen off their hands. Inter apparently ready to sell sneijder (sp) for 20 million - he could operate as an emergency striker too.

[Cripps_orig]

Should also get Shaqiri tbh

[AKBapologist]

http://www.wolves.co.uk/javaImages/22/db/0,,10307~10345250,00.jpg

[Olivier's xmas twist]

Frimmers :bow:

[Olivier's xmas twist]

I'd take anyone recommended by Bergkamp. Hefty price tag though for a 19yr old. Don't think Ajax would be too plsd if we took Vertonghen and Eriksen off their hands. Inter apparently ready to sell sneijder (sp) for 20 million - he could operate as an emergency striker too.

Then he'd go to Chavs or 1 of the mancs we'd never afford his wages

[Cripps_orig]

Hope he stays with Wolves permanently

[Olivier's xmas twist]

Hope he stays with Wolves permanently

Wtf, he is a good player all he needs is a few ist team games and he will beome good.

[Cripps_orig]

Hes shit and embarrassing off the pitch with all this Dench and Twitter shit

Hope he fucks off asap

[Olivier's xmas twist]

Hes shit and embarrassing off the pitch with all this Dench and Twitter shitHope he fucks off asap

oh feck off like he is the only one in the team who tweets. then most off the team should go with that logic

[Cripps_orig]

oh feck off like he is the only one in the team who tweets. then most off the team should go with that logicThat is the dream

[AKBapologist]

Anyone got access to the times?
If so, check out this link and tell us what it says tyvm.
http://t.co/iy6iCCxU

[alexander]

http://www.wolves.co.uk/javaImages/22/db/0,,10307~10345250,00.jpg

ok what wally works in the club shop printers and put his name on the front of the shirt.

good luck to him, think he will be a decent player in a few seasons.

[Cripps_orig]

Aston Villa could be set to sign Republic of Ireland striker Robbie Keane on a similar deal to that which Thierry Henry has agreed at Arsenal. The LA Galaxy striker would need clearance from both his club and Major League Soccer.
Full story: Daily Mirror
Chelsea could be set to spend big in the transfer window in an attempt to secure a top-four finish, with bids planned for Spurs star Luka Modric and Arsenal's Theo Walcott. Any such spending spree is expected to cost them in the region of £65m.
Full story: Caughtoffside
Manchester United are eyeing a £25m-plus-player offer for Lille attacker Eden Hazard, who is also a target for Arsenal.
Full story: Caughtoffside

Wonder if Villa are one of Keanes dream clubs.

Chelsea :haha: Why would Theo want to take a step down?

Hazard is a Must Get. Get Gervinho to do something useful for once in his miserable existence and convince Hazard to join us

[Master Splinter]

Hes shit and embarrassing

Hope he fucks off asap

Good self-awareness tbh.

[Niall_Quinn]

Chelsea :haha: Why would Theo want to take a step down?

For money I suppose. Theo talks a lot these days, but not on the pitch.

[McNamara That Ghost...]

QPR have signed Macheda on loan. :lol:

[GP]

For money I suppose. Theo talks a lot these days, but not on the pitch.

I suppose we wouldn't hear him if he did.

[Niall_Quinn]

I suppose we wouldn't hear him if he did.

Which is why it is always better for players to do their talking on the pitch. This guy has a book, a hotline to the media and no goals. Time for him to sort his shit out, his choice. Either he delivers on his potential or sets himself up as the new Cashley Cole. Really don't like (or rate) this bloke any more.

[Power n Glory]

Which is why it is always better for players to do their talking on the pitch. This guy has a book, a hotline to the media and no goals. Time for him to sort his shit out, his choice. Either he delivers on his potential or sets himself up as the new Cashley Cole. Really don't like (or rate) this bloke any more.

Come one now, behave. Cashley Cole? You sure about that?

[Unai Tea]

Come one now, behave. Cashley Cole? You sure about that?

I think it's fair to say that Walcott has piped up a bit more this year. Most of it is positive stuff, team oriented stuff, but sometimes it just sounds a bit too much. He wants to play up front, he's now a 'big man' and won't be in awe of Henry, he's come of age, etc. He's done better this year on the pitch but he's still a long way from being someone who you'd see as being a necessary player on this team. I agree that until we start seeing more top notch performances from him, not just the occassional flash, he'd be better to keep his facehole shut.

[Power n Glory]

I think it's fair to say that Walcott has piped up a bit more this year. Most of it is positive stuff, team oriented stuff, but sometimes it just sounds a bit too much. He wants to play up front, he's now a 'big man' and won't be in awe of Henry, he's come of age, etc. He's done better this year on the pitch but he's still a long way from being someone who you'd see as being a necessary player on this team. I agree that until we start seeing more top notch performances from him, not just the occassional flash, he'd be better to keep his facehole shut.

Fair points...but Cashley Cole? It's just the wrong comparison. And coming from a guy that has never liked Walcott. As for the book, hotline and all that other garbage...why are people paying attention to the side line stuff? Who cares?

[Cripps_orig]

Arsenal have joined Manchester City in attempting to sign playmaker Adam Maher from AZ Alkmaar, according to The Times.

The 18-year-old has appeared in every Eredivisie game so far this season after making his debut last season, and is now a key player for the club featuring in either a central or attacking midfield role.

His importance to AZ is reflected in his contract which runs until June 2015, and as the club do not need to sell players going into the transfer window, he will not be allowed to leave cheaply.

The report claims he has already turned down an offer from Manchester City, and in any case the youngster would struggle for game time at either Premier League side. He may therefore be set to stay with his first club for a while as he hopes to continue his progress.

Alkmaar appear to have much to offer him in the near future, sitting top of the Eredivisie halfway through the season and still in the Europa League.


http://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/2896/premier-league/2012/01/02/2826795/arsenal-join-manchester-city-in-attempting-to-sign-az

Who?

[Xhaka Can’t]

One of the key things Theo had working in his favour over the past few years has been his attitude and demeanour. Even that is going now. He has had setbacks because of injury, but I feel the Club have dealt with this patiently and so have the fans. Walcott has been given every opportunity but for the vast majority of the time, he has failed to deliver. If there is truth in the RUMOUR over wages, I would be happy for the Club to cut him loose.

His hype may suggest high wages are appropriate, his delivery suggests otherwise.

[Syn]

I don't believe that contract story for a second. And I also don't think his comments about Henry's shirt number were supposed to be taken seriously. I think this because Theo wouldn't have the balls to start a confrontation with anyone. I suspect if the club offered him £80k, he'd give £20k back. The fucking pussy. He has to stop shitting himself in front of goal. 2 league goals all season is absolutely pathetic for a wide forward. He hasn't lacked the chances either. He got 13 goals in around 20 starts last season. He can finish but he is too much into the wanting zone. He must observe the waiting period before entering the opportunity zone before ending with the finishing zone. Fuck him. He doesn't deserve to start. If Wenger doesn't start Oxlade today I'm going to throw my toys out the pram. And you wouldn't want to see that.

[Japan Shaking All Over]

I have wanted and still want Theo to do well and preferably for us but his occassional flashes of brilliance are too far and between to warrant a place in the first 11 every week. . .I know that there are a lot of you who hate Gervs but I think at least he takes the ball and tries to beat his man with it. . .something Theo cannot do!

I would say that Wenger go out and get someone like Hazard and say to Theo you had your chance and if you want another then this is the guy you need to take the job off. . .

[Unai Tea]

Fair points...but Cashley Cole? It's just the wrong comparison. And coming from a guy that has never liked Walcott. As for the book, hotline and all that other garbage...why are people paying attention to the side line stuff? Who cares?

Well yes, that's true. Walcott will need turboboosters to reach the stratospheric heights of cuntnosity that Cashley inhabits.

[Syn]

I would say that Wenger go out and get someone like Hazard

Why? So he can run the show for a couple of seasons and then fuck off to Real Madrid/Barcelona leaving us to re-build again?

Fuck that.

We must observe the English revolution. Wilshere, Oxlade are our Hazards, Gotzes. Time they manned up and got themselves on the pitch.

[milla]

Why? So he can run the show for a couple of seasons and then fuck off to Real Madrid/Barcelona leaving us to re-build again?

Fuck that.

We must observe the English revolution. Wilshere, Oxlade are our Hazards, Gotzes. Time they manned up and got themselves on the pitch.

I like to see more of Sanchez Watt. Last time I saw him, he doesnt look like a kid anymore. Very well build, got speed and good on the ball. If there is one player from our academy that has natural talent to play as a wide forward, it has to be him IMO. :coffee:

[Japan Shaking All Over]

Why? So he can run the show for a couple of seasons and then fuck off to Real Madrid/Barcelona leaving us to re-build again?

Fuck that.

We must observe the English revolution. Wilshere, Oxlade are our Hazards, Gotzes. Time they manned up and got themselves on the pitch.

Point taken. . .but my point is about Theo and the way that he seems to think the efforts he has shown thus far are enough for him to have the door opened for him. . . .he needs to come back down to earth. . .being good at complaining to the ref doesnt justify publishing your life story. . .

TBH I would love for it to be a GHEL that forces Theo to think more about how he makes a living and Oxo was the name I was thinking before writing Hazards but I dont think we have seen enough of Oxo yet for Theo to still not think his name should be pencilled in. An established name of promise may do that. . .alrhough I very much doubt that will happen. . .there is an argument that if we started winning again that players would not fuck off and I do think that apart from our ability to match wages that we are a more attractive option in England to say Chelsea? !

[Japan Shaking All Over]

Got a feeling I might get crucified for my last statement. . .but who cares , gonna stick by it. . .in a particularly MOCish mood tonight!

[Power n Glory]

I don't believe that contract story for a second. And I also don't think his comments about Henry's shirt number were supposed to be taken seriously. I think this because Theo wouldn't have the balls to start a confrontation with anyone. I suspect if the club offered him £80k, he'd give £20k back. The fucking pussy. He has to stop shitting himself in front of goal. 2 league goals all season is absolutely pathetic for a wide forward. He hasn't lacked the chances either. He got 13 goals in around 20 starts last season. He can finish but he is too much into the wanting zone. He must observe the waiting period before entering the opportunity zone before ending with the finishing zone. Fuck him. He doesn't deserve to start. If Wenger doesn't start Oxlade today I'm going to throw my toys out the pram. And you wouldn't want to see that.

That's more like it. :lol:

Sounds like your opinion hasn't been framed by this bullshit media coverage about his contract.

@GB - Not sure about this change in attitude stuff. It's for the better. He's had this nice nice guy good lad 'pussy' image for a while now and everyone on here keeps saying he needs to grow a pair and be more aggressive. Wenger has been telling him to be more aggressive. It all change from the World Cup and it's for the better. But because we have this bullshit media talk about his contract, it's seen as a negative. But if he had just signed a new contract and the perception of attitude on the pitch would be totally different. It would be seen a positive thing.


Media speculation can make a story out of anything. If RVP wasn't on red hot form, stopped scoring goals and looked like a frustrated figure on the pitch, as he usually does when not playing well, all it would take is one story about contact talks breaking down or some link to another club and people on here would start drawing all sorts of conclusions. The usual speculation about his head being turned and not being committed...hence the performances. Just best to ignore the press in these sort of cases.

[Marc Overmars]

Got a feeling I might get crucified for my last statement. . .but who cares , gonna stick by it. . .in a particularly MOCish mood tonight!

We're a bigger club than Chelsea, so you're spot on when you say we're a more attractive option. Of course we don't have the same financial muscle and that's the difference.

[Kaiser]

:haha:

Syn :bow:

[Kano]

the bottom line is the boy is growing up and is obviously a different guy to the boy that signed with us, not only through evolving into a man but doing so playing in front of thousands every week and fierce criticism. fair enough he has to accept that people will always pick at his game, it comes with the territory but in the premier bubble i'd stiffen up to it too.

he still works hard at games and contributes a lot to the team throughout the season; no matter if it's with us or someone else the next 2/3 will decide the level of football he plays for the rest of his career. man utd would be interested in taking him on, particularly on the cheap but the overall feeling is that if he does leave us he definitely replaceable.

[Marc Overmars]

My concern is that he would be a success if he left us for a rival.

Under a GHEL manager in a GHEL environment, he will be the ultimate pub team player to hoof it to and run.

[AKBapologist]

http://www.guardian.co.uk/football/2012/jan/02/lukas-podolski-arsenal-koln-germany


Lukas Podolski has ruled out a January transfer to Arsenal. Kon Schramm, the representative of the Köln striker, told the Guardian that a move in the Bundesliga winter break is "all but impossible", citing the player's reluctance to endanger his chances of featuring for Germany in the European Championship in Poland and Ukraine this year. "Köln has priority right now; we have time [for everything else] in the summer," said Schramm.

Despite the Arsenal manager Arsène Wenger's protestations to the contrary, there has been contact with the Polish-born forward in recent weeks. But Podolski, who has scored 14 goals in 16 league games this season, is wary of trading his automatic starting place for a new beginning in the Premier League at this stage of the campaign, especially in the light of Robin van Persie's outstanding form.

The left-footed Podolski has 91 caps and has been a mainstay for the German national team since 2004, but he is faced with increasing competition from emerging talent such as Mario Götze (Dortmund) and Marco Reus (Borussia Mönchengladbach).

While Gervinho's absence for the Africa Cup of Nations would provide the 26-year-old Podolski with an opportunity to play wide left for Arsenal, in the same role he has successfully filled for Joachim Löw's team in recent years, the player is much happier as a centre-forward. He is also very settled at his hometown club. On Monday, he revealed to Bild he was putting off planned nasal surgery so as not to miss five days of training.

A possible deal is further complicated by Köln's stance. The 10th-placed club are €31m (£25.8m) in debt but will not accept Arsenal's mooted offer of £10m due to the player's importance for the team and his contractual situation. A third of Podolski's transfer rights are held by the club sponsor SolarWorld, which partly financed his €10m return from Bayern Munich in 2009. Köln would thus only receive £6.6m, too meagre a return for the political and sporting fallout of selling their prize asset half-way through the season.

It would take an offer closer to €20m to make the economic case for his departure more compelling, according to a club source. But Köln will be forced to accept lower offers in the summer if Podolski refuses to extend his existing contract beyond 2013.

[Olivier's xmas twist]

http://www.guardian.co.uk/football/2012/jan/02/lukas-podolski-arsenal-koln-germany

So basically if you want him, pay a decent fee so his agent can get a cut.

[Niall_Quinn]

Come one now, behave. Cashley Cole? You sure about that?

No, exaggeration but he's heading more in that direction than Wilshere, for example.

[Niall_Quinn]

Fair points...but Cashley Cole? It's just the wrong comparison. And coming from a guy that has never liked Walcott. As for the book, hotline and all that other garbage...why are people paying attention to the side line stuff? Who cares?

Not true, I've been a supporter of his in the past. I figured he needed time, but how much time is now the question. If he wants to go and we're prepared to reinvest the money in something other than hookers and rent boys for the board then I'd be okay with that. Of course we wouldn't be prepared to fully reinvest so I guess we give the guy as much time as he needs and suffer the consequences. We're used to it anyway.

[Xhaka Can’t]

@PnG - there is some truth to what you say, so point taken on that.

@TT - Walcott is not the only one having to deal with pressure - in fact if anything, I think given the patience shown over a number of years, he has faced less pressure than most. I can't recall another player given so much time and understanding at a top flight Club.

[Power n Glory]

No, exaggeration but he's heading more in that direction than Wilshere, for example.

That's a silly comparison. Wilshere has only had one season in the first team and since he's sat this season out there has been no media attention on him. We don't know how he'd handle the fame. Plus, if your talking about off the pitch stuff, you sure Wilshere is the guy you want to hold up as the kid heading in the right direction?

[Niall_Quinn]

That's a silly comparison. Wilshere has only had one season in the first team and since he's sat this season out there has been no media attention on him. We don't know how he'd handle the fame. Plus, if your talking about off the pitch stuff, you sure Wilshere is the guy you want to hold up as the kid heading in the right direction?

Walcott was supposed to be the next great thing, he's failed to deliver anywhere near what has been expected of him. Wilshere has breezed past him, both for Arsenal and England. Nobody talks about Theo as if he is anything special any more, whereas Wilshere is viewed as the future. What Walcott was supposed to achieve, Wilshere has done in record time. Wilshere may have had a few off-field issues but nothing detrimental to his football, with that he's gone from strength to strength. Walcott, on the other hand, has been busy telling Wenger and Capello how it should be. He's as dumb off the pitch as on it in football terms. We may get lucky and he'll wise up and start performing, but so far no sign of that. He doesn't seem to have any competition for his place and I'm wondering why.

[Power n Glory]

Walcott was supposed to be the next great thing, he's failed to deliver anywhere near what has been expected of him. Wilshere has breezed past him, both for Arsenal and England. Nobody talks about Theo as if he is anything special any more, whereas Wilshere is viewed as the future. What Walcott was supposed to achieve, Wilshere has done in record time. Wilshere may have had a few off-field issues but nothing detrimental to his football, with that he's gone from strength to strength. Walcott, on the other hand, has been busy telling Wenger and Capello how it should be. He's as dumb off the pitch as on it in football terms. We may get lucky and he'll wise up and start performing, but so far no sign of that. He doesn't seem to have any competition for his place and I'm wondering why.

Record time? What is that exactly? What has he achieved? The hype level?

[Niall_Quinn]

Record time? What is that exactly? What has he achieved? The hype level?

Wilshere is hype? Don't think so. Walcott, on the other hand.

[Syn]

I'm not hyping Wilshere up or nuffin but he is one of the best midfielders in the world. #c.f.arsenalvbarcelona

[LDG]

I'm not hyping Wilshere up or nuffin but he is one of the best midfielders in the world. #c.f.arsenalvbarcelona

Ollie is not gay :sulk:

[Syn]

Ollie is not gay :sulk:

:lol:

[Xhaka Can’t]

Good start by Fulham.

Hope it is short lived.

[Xhaka Can’t]

Thanks Riise.

[Cripps_orig]

Good start by Fulham.

Hope it is short lived.

In the transfer market?

[Xhaka Can’t]

I'm in the wrong thread, aren't I?

[Cripps_orig]

Keeper needed

Handanovic anyone?

[Dennis Bendtner]

Not sure two players have annoyed me more than Walcott and Gervinho for a while. We know since Fabregas went, the play is going through the two wide attackers more than ever. I prefer this balance, without a doubt. But what the hell. I can't be doing this any more. Can we just sign/play anyone with cojones there. Please. It's more important than ever.

[McNamara That Ghost...]

We might have done. Oxocube doesn't exist in Wenger's eyes though.

[Niall_Quinn]

We might have done. Oxocube doesn't exist in Wenger's eyes though.

Heard it costs £7.49 per game to play him, so he was never likely to actually start. Plus 50p if he's on the bench, which I know we've stretched to a few times but obviously we can't do it every week.

[McNamara That Ghost...]

Heard it costs £7.49 per game to play him, so he was never likely to actually start. Plus 50p if he's on the bench, which I know we've stretched to a few times but obviously we can't do it every week.

We could've saved money by not buying him in the first place. And he has a degree in Economics? :lol:

[Niall_Quinn]

We could've saved money by not buying him in the first place. And he has a degree in Economics? :lol:

You're forgetting the Man City deal in 2 years. Ox and Jack should get us at least £4mill if we haggle in the usual manner.

[McNamara That Ghost...]

You're forgetting the Man City deal in 2 years. Ox and Jack should get us at least £4mill if we haggle in the usual manner.

They'll have to pay out for the compensation of Syn topping himself in that scenario.

[Niall_Quinn]

They'll have to pay out for the compensation of Syn topping himself in that scenario.

They have limitless funds, and extra £2.50 hardly breaks the bank.

[McNamara That Ghost...]

They have limitless funds, and extra £2.50 hardly breaks the bank.

I meant Arsenal, not Citeh.

[Niall_Quinn]

I meant Arsenal, not Citeh.

Oh right - deal's off then. Maybe Ox could get a part-time job and kick some cash back to the club so he can play?

[Cripps_orig]

Sunderland midfielder Kieran Richardson has emerged as a shock target for Arsenal, with the 27-year-old believed to be keen on a move to the capital.
Full story: Daily Mirror

:haha:

I can see this happening mainly cos this is the level we are at now

[Marc Overmars]

That might be the most depressing link we've ever had. :lol:

[Grebbo]

:haha:

I can see this happening mainly cos this is the level we are at now

We don't even have decent rumours anymore! The papers have given up thinking we'll sign any stars.

:haha:

[Japan Shaking All Over]

:haha:

I can see this happening mainly cos this is the level we are at now

Agreed a shocker of a rumour but 'level we are at now'? FFS what are we doing, fighting with the likes of Wigan for PL survival?

No. . .granted we are not winning the league either but we are/should be going out to win every game and see where that gets us. . .if the level you are talking about is last nights loss, I would agree bad loss and would add tjat it is obvious one goal leads are not our forte but we have lost 2 in hiw many 13/14, not that bad. . .in my experience its always best to add to little salt than too much so. . .

If your assessment of our level is that we have plenty of room for improvement then I agree with that too and hope that we add enough to being us up more. . .but if the assessmemt is (as I imagine) that we are dogshit and that Wenger MUST go, I disagree and say 'change the record'


But Richardson. . .:doh: suppose we will be linked with every Tom Dick and Harry who has played FB! ?

[Cripps_orig]

We're in pretty shit form.

4 wins in 10 games whilst not as awful as we were back in Feb-September is still pretty mediocre. Its mid table standard and the little blip we had with the good run is well and truly over and we are back to normal

[Niall_Quinn]

Sunderland midfielder Kieran Richardson has emerged as a shock target for Arsenal

Fantastic player, better than Biglia and Nelson Ebola by miles, a must get. Also the final piece in the puzzle, we have now been linked with every professional player in the world. That's it for the transfer window, job done.

[Olivier's xmas twist]

We're in pretty shit form.


So's you face

[Cripps_orig]

Mature

[Niall_Quinn]

Mature

Unlike your face.

[Cripps_orig]

Arsenal and Liverpool have been handed a boost in their bid to sign Lukas Podolski after the Cologne and Germany international striker stalled on talks over a new contract at the Bundesliga club.
Full story: Bild (in German)

Arsenal goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny hit trendy nightclub Mahiki with his injured team-mate Jack Wilshere, just hours after taking the blame for conceding a soft goal in the Gunners' 2-1 reverse at Fulham.
Full story: Metro

Podolski :pray:

Sesfdksfnny :doh:

Just fuck off

[Olivier's xmas twist]

Podolski :pray:

Sesfdksfnny :doh:

Just fuck off

Why because he went out on the town, was he suppose to stay at home and mope around.

[Cripps_orig]

Its unprofessional and shows he doesnt really give a fuck about the club as long as he gets paid.

Bendtneresque from a few years ago when he was caught coming out of a club with his trousers down literally

Need a new keeper in asap

[Olivier's xmas twist]

Arsenal's next defender may herald from the Oman second division, with 24-year-old Saad al-Mukhaini offered a two-day trial this week.
Full story: The Times (http://www.thetimes.co.uk/tto/sport/football/clubs/arsenal/article3275523.ece)


some pub teamer from the oman league hope not,


Meanwhile Gary Cahill's proposed move to Stamford Bridge could be jeopardised by his wage demands. Bolton and Chelsea have agreed a £7m transfer fee but the England defender has reportedly asked for £120,000 per week, the same salary as Ashley Cole, but some £50,000 per week higher than Chelsea's valuation.
Full story: Daily Express (http://www.express.co.uk/posts/view/293474)


Cahill :doh:

[Letters]

Its unprofessional and shows he doesnt really give a fuck about the club as long as he gets paid.

Yes. After defeats our players should all put on black armbands and sit around at home looking sad.

Stop being such a cock. If you're going to claim you don't have your little favourites then you really need to stop posting this sort of shit.

[GP]

you really need to stop posting

:gp:

[Xhaka Can’t]

Yes. After defeats our players should all put on black armbands and sit around at home looking sad.


I'm sick of all this mollycoddling.

They should all put on black armbands, burn their homes down and sit outside them looking sad.

Anyone adjudged by GWers in the top 3 as voted for in the MOTM thread can roast marshmallows.

[Letters]

I'm sick of all this mollycoddling.

They should all put on black armbands, burn their homes down and sit outside them looking sad.

Anyone adjudged by GWers in the top 3 as voted for in the MOTM thread can roast marshmallows.

Screw you and your liberalism.
They should be shot in front of their families :sulk:


Actually, some of them probably should <_<

[Cripps_orig]

Yes. After defeats our players should all put on black armbands and sit around at home looking sad.

Stop being such a cock. If you're going to claim you don't have your little favourites then you really need to stop posting this sort of shit.Yes cos thatsh what i really said :doh:

If you cant see whats wrong here then its no wonder our players are in a comfort zone thinking they can do what they want with no repercussions.

Our inept keeper was directly at fault for one of the goals we conceded in a defeat. The same night, hes out partying. And you see nothing wrong with that?

Oh dear

[Letters]

Our inept keeper was directly at fault for one of the goals we conceded in a defeat. The same night, hes out partying. And you see nothing wrong with that?

No, and nor would you if it was one of your little favourites.
You don't really see anything wrong with this either of course. Just another little opportunity to have a dig at one of the players you don't like, point score and WUM.

Boring.
Boring.
Boring.


Line breaks :bow:

[Cripps_orig]

No, and nor would you if it was one of your little favourites.
You don't really see anything wrong with this either of course. Just another little opportunity to have a dig at one of the players you don't like, point score and WUM.

Boring.
Boring.
Boring.


Line breaks :bow:I have no idea who my favourites are. Youre the only one who comes out with this tripe when you have nothing sensible to say about one of your favourites being caught in the wrong.

Typical Letters.

The usual "Ach is right as usual and i know he is but i cant admit it so lets just call him a WUM" line that you and many others hide behind

Very boring indeed :good:

[KSE Comedy Club]

Chesney has been outstanding for us this season, he's right up there with RVP and Kos as stand out players.

So he went out after 1 defeat, big deal.

You really need to get some perspective Ach.

[Niall_Quinn]

It's completely unacceptable for our keeper to make a mistake and now he should pay the price by being sold so we can bring in a keeper that will be flawless for the rest of the season. There must be plenty of those around.

[KSE Comedy Club]

It's completely unacceptable for our keeper to make a mistake and now he should pay the price by being sold so we can bring in a keeper that will be flawless for the rest of the season. There must be plenty of those around.

No, no NQ, thats wrong.

He should be publically embarrassed/flogged before being sold.

[Kano]

Yes cos thatsh what i really said :doh:

If you cant see whats wrong here then its no wonder our players are in a comfort zone thinking they can do what they want with no repercussions.

Our inept keeper was directly at fault for one of the goals we conceded in a defeat. The same night, hes out partying. And you see nothing wrong with that?

Oh dear

was he out partying or for one or two drinks?

there is a big difference.

[Cripps_orig]

Chesney has been outstanding for us this season, he's right up there with RVP and Kos as stand out players.

So he went out after 1 defeat, big deal.

You really need to get some perspective Ach.Kos? Really?

Hes been great last 3 games admittedly but 3 games does not make a season

Il give you RVP

Look at the Mancs. Rooney, Gibson and another Pub Teamer who i cant remember went out for dinner. Nothing bad happened but Fergie was pissed and fined them all i think or called them in on their day off to train and all were dropped v Blackburn. They have learnt their lesson and will go on to win fuck loads of trophies.

Our players go out after a defeat. Wenger probably said its ok. We win f all for years

[Kano]

they were fined due to poor training performance, not for going out

[Cripps_orig]

they were fined due to poor training performance, not for going outAnd the poor training came after a night out :good:

[Niall_Quinn]

they were fined due to poor training performance, not for going out

No, you can't claim that because it doesn't hold the convoluted argument together.

[Kano]

And the poor training came after a night out :good:

that the manager sanctioned.

players go out all the time but curb how far they go, as sensible adults and it doesn't affect training.

[LDG]

Kos? Really?

Hes been great last 3 games admittedly but 3 games does not make a season




It's not even 10 games FFS.

[Cripps_orig]

that the manager sanctioned.

players go out all the time but curb how far they go, as sensible adults and it doesn't affect training.I really doubt he sanctioned it.

Why drop Rooney for a game then? Not on bad training alone, players train shit all the time and still play the next game

[Kano]

he prob gave them the chance to go out on the premise that they maintain professional standards, which they didn't, so were fined.

evans is injured, gibson never plays and why not let his star man have a night off?

footballers going out is very common practice, so it is very likely this was sanctioned by the manager.

until you can prove that Scezney was out getting pissed up, you haven't got a leg to stand on here.

[KSE Comedy Club]

Im sure Rooney was dropped because fergie thought Blackeye would be a piece of piss and roll over for them.

[KSE Comedy Club]

Kos? Really?

Hes been great last 3 games admittedly but 3 games does not make a season

Il give you RVP

Look at the Mancs. Rooney, Gibson and another Pub Teamer who i cant remember went out for dinner. Nothing bad happened but Fergie was pissed and fined them all i think or called them in on their day off to train and all were dropped v Blackburn. They have learnt their lesson and will go on to win fuck loads of trophies.

Our players go out after a defeat. Wenger probably said its ok. We win f all for years

Kos has been good in most games this season, he has definately been consistantly better than Merts and Verms when they have played.

[Cripps_orig]

he prob gave them the chance to go out on the premise that they maintain professional standards, which they didn't, so were fined.

evans is injured, gibson never plays and why not let his star man have a night off?

footballers going out is very common practice, so it is very likely this was sanctioned by the manager.

until you can prove that Scezney was out getting pissed up, you haven't got a leg to stand on here.


The pair may now have to answer to Gunners boss Arsene Wenger, who is unlikely to be impressed by the youngsters’ partying in the aftermath of such a demoralising defeat.


Doesnt sound like it was sanctioned

[LDG]

"May" and "unlikely"

That's as definitive as you get really.

[Kano]

so because anthony ashworth at the metro writes they may be punished, then that gives us some sort of insight to the behind the scenes at the club?

[Olivier's xmas twist]

Kos? Really?

Hes been great last 3 games admittedly but 3 games does not make a seasonIl give you RVP

Look at the Mancs. Rooney, Gibson and another Pub Teamer who i cant remember went out for dinner. Nothing bad happened but Fergie was pissed and fined them all i think or called them in on their day off to train and all were dropped v Blackburn. They have learnt their lesson and will go on to win fuck loads of trophies.

Our players go out after a defeat. Wenger probably said its ok. We win f all for years


Rubbish he has been more or less our best defender this season.

This the same wenger who punished pennant for getting drunk and crashing, or who gave nicky B a telling off when he came out the night club with his pants down.

so what chesney went out who cares had that had been theo after a poor game he had, you'd be saying how he deserved it and all that jazz.

[Olivier's xmas twist]

Im sure Rooney was dropped because fergie thought Blackeye would be a piece of piss and roll over for them.

Or he had to give his scottish pal a hand, like they always do for each other.

[Cripps_orig]

so because anthony ashworth at the metro writes they may be punished, then that gives us some sort of insight to the behind the scenes at the club?Probably knows more than us

[Cripps_orig]

Rubbish he has been more or less our best defender this season.

This the same wenger who punished pennant for getting drunk and crashing, or who gave nicky B a telling off when he came out the night club with his pants down.

so what chesney went out who cares had that had been theo after a poor game he had, you'd be saying how he deserved it and all that jazz.

What?

[Coney]

"May" and "unlikely"

That's as definitive as you get really.

Well, sort of.

[Kano]

Probably knows more than us

probably being the right word. nothing very definitive here to base your accusations on really.

[Flavs]

What?

He said he thinks you're a cunt

[Coney]

Look at the Mancs. Rooney, Gibson and another Pub Teamer who i cant remember went out for dinner. Nothing bad happened but Fergie was pissed and fined them all i think or called them in on their day off to train and all were dropped v Blackburn.

... and they lost. If only they'd played Rooney.... ;)

[Cripps_orig]

probably being the right word. nothing very definitive here to base your accusations on really.What accusations?

He went out. Thats confirmed. Not an accusation. Its fact. Whether he got pissed or not is irrelevant.

Going out after a defeat which he played a big part in isnt what id call the cleverest move.

[Marc Overmars]

Nothing wrong with Chesney going out Ach. Did he get shitfaced and fuck some underage girls in the back of a car or something? No. He's not done anything to affect our reputation and his performance. Maybe players like to go out after a shit game to take their mind off what happened.

[Flavs]

Did he get shitfaced and fuck some underage girls in the back of a car or something? .

Ribery :bow:

[Marc Overmars]

Ribery :bow:

Living the dream. :bow:

[GP]

Living the dream. :bow:

So's his face.

[Kano]

What accusations?

He went out. Thats confirmed. Not an accusation. Its fact. Whether he got pissed or not is irrelevant.

Going out after a defeat which he played a big part in isnt what id call the cleverest move.

just to be clear:

"shows he doesnt really give a fuck about the club as long as he gets paid."

"no wonder our players are in a comfort zone thinking they can do what they want with no repercussions"

"Our inept keeper was directly at fault for one of the goals we conceded in a defeat. The same night, hes out partying"

those are your accusations.

'partying' in tabloid speak means going out on a bender. needs to be proved he went nuts or was only out for a couple which shouldn't be a problem if the latter.

[Marc Overmars]

http://www.mahiki.com/

Look who's pictured in the top article.

What a man. :bow:

[McNamara That Ghost...]

Our team is GHEL City now, this kind of thing is to be expected.

Time to bring back the Tuesday drinking club. :scarf:

[Flavs]

Time to bring back the Tuesday drinking club. :scarf:

Isn't that a Sheryl Crow album?

[Cripps_orig]

just to be clear:

"shows he doesnt really give a fuck about the club as long as he gets paid."

"no wonder our players are in a comfort zone thinking they can do what they want with no repercussions"

"Our inept keeper was directly at fault for one of the goals we conceded in a defeat. The same night, hes out partying"

those are your accusations.

'partying' in tabloid speak means going out on a bender. needs to be proved he went nuts or was only out for a couple which shouldn't be a problem if the latter.

Fair enough although id say only the doesnt give a fuck one is an accusation.

The other 2, well we know Wenger lets our plays do what they want when they want and regularly bends over for them as much as he does for Barca so its unlikely Ches or Jack will get any repercussions.

And he was at fault for the first goal and was out that night. Not an accusation. Fact. Im not tabloid. Partying to me means going out clubbing regardless of what happens inside

[Letters]

so what chesney went out who cares had that had been theo after a poor game he had, you'd be saying how he deserved it and all that jazz.

Innit. Cripps doesn't actually think Chesney did anything wrong of course. He's just decided he's not one of his little favourites so will take any opportunity to have a dig or a WUM. As you say if it was one of his little favourites like Walcott nothing would be said.

WUMs gotta WUM :shrug:

[Cripps_orig]

Innit. Cripps doesn't actually think Chesney did anything wrong of course. He's just decided he's not one of his little favourites so will take any opportunity to have a dig or a WUM. As you say if it was one of his little favourites like Walcott nothing would be said.

WUMs gotta WUM :shrug:Well no but nice try

Also said the same about Bendtner after he went out clubbing after the CL semi defeat v Mancs in 09 and im a fan of his

[LDG]

It's a lottery really.

[Marc Overmars]

The story wouldn't have been reported had we won the game.