Summer Transfer Misery and Recriminations.

[Bergkampwonderland10]

Has Kos even returned to the squad yet? There's no way he'd be ready for next week.

I think he'll try a bid for Mustafi but won't go beyond his valuation as he'd think he'd be able to wing it with Kos + Holding/Chambers and Monreal if need be until one of BFG or Gabriel comes back.
We were looking for a CB before Gabriels injury so I don't think he wants to wing it for long to be fair on Wenger. Its just whether we get gazumped on our targets yet again.

[mastermind84]

Did you watch the game today?

only saw the first half, and he didnt play well.

[Ralpheroo72]

Its a difficult market for us, but not for anyone else, especially if they are willing to pay the asking price

WENGER COY ON DEFENSIVE COVER

Arsenal suffered a defensive setback this evening as Gabriel was stretchered off in their win over Manchester City.

With Per Mertesacker facing at least four months out with injury and Laurent Koscielny only returning to training tomorrow, Gabriel's injury could leave the Gunners short for their Premier League opener next weekend.
So does Arsene Wenger plan to make signings? "I have said many times that we are in the market, but it’s not an easy market for us," he said after the game. "Let’s hope we have good news for Gabriel.

"Koscielny is back in training but we might be short for next week. If Gabriel is out, Mertesacker is out and Koscielny is out then that makes many players."

[Niall_Quinn]

Its a difficult market for us, but not for anyone else, especially if they are willing to pay the asking price

WENGER COY ON DEFENSIVE COVER

Arsenal suffered a defensive setback this evening as Gabriel was stretchered off in their win over Manchester City.

With Per Mertesacker facing at least four months out with injury and Laurent Koscielny only returning to training tomorrow, Gabriel's injury could leave the Gunners short for their Premier League opener next weekend.
So does Arsene Wenger plan to make signings? "I have said many times that we are in the market, but it’s not an easy market for us," he said after the game. "Let’s hope we have good news for Gabriel.

"Koscielny is back in training but we might be short for next week. If Gabriel is out, Mertesacker is out and Koscielny is out then that makes many players."

Hundreds of millions in the bank, and we'll be short for next week.

These guys aren't even trying to hide what they are all about. But you'll still get those mugs at the home games singing Wenger's name.

[Power n Glory]

only saw the first half, and he didnt play well.

It wasn't a good 1st half for anyone. Midfield was disjointed and it was a bit too easy for City to break up our attacks.

Ramsey and Sanchez worked well off each other but it was more a case of Ramsey making runs into the box instead of supplying the final ball as expected. But Sanchez wasn't hogging the ball and doing too much as we would usually see on the wings.

2nd half was a lot better once Elneny and Theo came on. Elneny was the main difference though. Always on the move, finding the gaps and providing an outletso we could play the ball out from deep. That wasn't really happening in the first half and we struggled. 2nd half we were all over City and bossed them. You might be right about Sanchez being more like a number 10 because he set up Theo's goal and should have had an assist for Ramsey. But overall he played well. His movement needs some work but it wasn't bad because he wasn't static and uninvolved but he wasn't ball chasing neglecting his duties as striker. First game bad so he wasn't bad at all.

[mastermind84]

It wasn't a good 1st half for anyone. Midfield was disjointed and it was a bit too easy for City to break up our attacks.

Ramsey and Sanchez worked well off each other but it was more a case of Ramsey making runs into the box instead of supplying the final ball as expected. But Sanchez wasn't hogging the ball and doing too much as we would usually see on the wings.

2nd half was a lot better once Elneny and Theo came on. Elneny was the main difference though. Always on the move, finding the gaps and providing an outletso we could play the ball out from deep. That wasn't really happening in the first half and we struggled. 2nd half we were all over City and bossed them. You might be right about Sanchez being more like a number 10 because he set up Theo's goal and should have had an assist for Ramsey. But overall he played well. His movement needs some work but it wasn't bad because he wasn't static and uninvolved but he wasn't ball chasing neglecting his duties as striker. First game bad so he wasn't bad at all.
Cool

I hope he starts at CF next week. If... err... when we don't buy anyone, Sanchez learning CF is our best solution.

[Özim]

Joke of a club and manager, all summer to find players and yet we now don't have any defenders and still don't have a striker, it's beyond ridiculous.

Beating Man City last night will convince that guy in charge that everything is hunky-dory again, come the proper stuff we'll get beaten as usual.

Awful time to be an Arsenal fan, Wenger has runined this club for me.

[Power n Glory]

Joke of a club and manager, all summer to find players and yet we now don't have any defenders and still don't have a striker, it's beyond ridiculous.

Beating Man City last night will convince that guy in charge that everything is hunky-dory again, come the proper stuff we'll get beaten as usual.

Awful time to be an Arsenal fan, Wenger has runined this club for me.

I think Wenger had already had his mind made up on the striker situation before going into yesterday’s game. I think the injury to Gabriel will force his hand though. We’re wafer thin on experienced CB’s. On the bright side at least he’s looking at Sanchez and Theo as strikers, Sanchez especially. If Sanchez hits form in that role, I think we’d have created a player that’s better than anything available on the market right now. My only hope is that we keep Giroud out of the starting line up and he’s used as a Plan B striker to come off the bench.

[Özim]

I think Wenger had already had his mind made up on the striker situation before going into yesterday’s game. I think the injury to Gabriel will force his hand though. We’re wafer thin on experienced CB’s. On the bright side at least he’s looking at Sanchez and Theo as strikers, Sanchez especially. If Sanchez hits form in that role, I think we’d have created a player that’s better than anything available on the market right now. My only hope is that we keep Giroud out of the starting line up and he’s used as a Plan B striker to come off the bench.

We still need another striker, Sanchez and Walcott up front is great but we won't be in there without a striker. We know Wenger is as cheap as they come and that he'll always look at answers within his squad of bottlers, fact is though the answer isn't in there, years of the same tells you that.

As for the CB, we won't have one next week (he's already confirmed that), Liverpool will be rubbing their hands together and may even come away with a win now and if we do sign one knowing Wenger it will be some cheap bag o' sh*te, I just don't understand how the guy can take the p*ss like this and still get away with it, even the pro Wenger fans said we needed a striker etc in the summer and yet again the man has failed to deliver.

I'm already writing off this season and expecting a few beatings to be honest from the big boys when it matters most.

[Gooner23]

If Sanchez is used as a striker then we really should be looking at another winger / wide forward. Iwobi looks great but it's too much to ask for a kid to be relied on so heavily. Ox will get injured, Theo is hit and miss (mainly miss) and Wenger clearly has no faith in Campbell so he wont be used that much.

Can't have any complaints over the CB fiasco though. We should have signed a top one at the beginning of the summer, let alone when Merts got injured.

[Bumble]

It is ridiculous that we haven't signed a CB already after the Merts injury. Gabriel has just made it worse and if we sign a CB now not sure there is really time to bed in and play in the first game of the season. Problem is that Wenger probably thinks that well Monreal can cover at CB and Gibbs is experienced left back to cover for Monreal so not alls lost. With the other CB being Chambers and Bellerin at right back. Not ideal but we have had worst back 4s under Wengers time.

I also don't think we are going to sign a striker, we would have done it by now... its not like we had to wait to sell players to raise the cash. we can buy any player in the world but obviously with arsenal the cliché you have to spend money to make money doesn't really apply.

[dostoy]

I don't think we are going to sign Lacazette now especially with his injury.

I cannot see us signing Mahrez either.

It seems more likely to be Javier Hernandez from Leverkusen or even Mario Gomez, probably Hernandez.

We need a defender now more than ever, FFS Wenger get one ASAP.

I just cannot see anything happening until the last few days of this month.

[Munchies]

Didn't Wenger once say that he wanted the transfer window to be closed before the season started?

Guy is so out of his depth it's unreal

[Gooner23]

I don't think we are going to sign Lacazette now especially with his injury.

I cannot see us signing Mahrez either.

It seems more likely to be Javier Hernandez from Leverkusen or even Mario Gomez, probably Hernandez.

We need a defender now more than ever, FFS Wenger get one ASAP.

I just cannot see anything happening until the last few days of this month.

Whoever we sign now is going to need some adaption and the first couple of games will be too soon. Bit of a shambles really, but nothing unexpected. Really wouldn't be surprised if that's our business done already, maybe a cheap CB squad filler.

[Power n Glory]

We still need another striker, Sanchez and Walcott up front is great but we won't be in there without a striker. We know Wenger is as cheap as they come and that he'll always look at answers within his squad of bottlers, fact is though the answer isn't in there, years of the same tells you that.

As for the CB, we won't have one next week (he's already confirmed that), Liverpool will be rubbing their hands together and may even come away with a win now and if we do sign one knowing Wenger it will be some cheap bag o' sh*te, I just don't understand how the guy can take the p*ss like this and still get away with it, even the pro Wenger fans said we needed a striker etc in the summer and yet again the man has failed to deliver.

I'm already writing off this season and expecting a few beatings to be honest from the big boys when it matters most.

I’ve said this before, I said the same last summer, I can live with us not signing a new striker if I thought Wenger would commit to playing someone like Sanchez, Walcott or even Campbell up front. As long as he keeps Giroud out of the squad, I think we could find the internal solution. Even on a bad day, Theo Walcott couldn’t go as long as Giroud did without scoring a goal. But we’d still have problems in other areas as seen from yesterday’s game. The finishing from other players needs to sharpen up. Ramsey really should have scored from that header.

Also, team selection is important. I’m a little worried by Xhaka. He was a bit too easy to stifle and after the first goal City dominated us. Elneny was a lot better and should play for sure. I think he’s essential. Which opens up the can of worms we see every season. Square pegs in round holes to try appease bruised egos. Wenger will have to be tough and drop certain players. We’ve collected far too many central midfielders and it’s good to have back up but I don’t trust him to rotate or keep in players that are vital. I don’t want to see Ramsey played out wide just to give him game time or Coquelin tested at CB just so he can kill two birds with one stone.

[Power n Glory]

If Sanchez is used as a striker then we really should be looking at another winger / wide forward. Iwobi looks great but it's too much to ask for a kid to be relied on so heavily. Ox will get injured, Theo is hit and miss (mainly miss) and Wenger clearly has no faith in Campbell so he wont be used that much.

Can't have any complaints over the CB fiasco though. We should have signed a top one at the beginning of the summer, let alone when Merts got injured.


I think we need wide players too. I don't even trust Ox to have a good season. I saw a few of his cheeky goals recently but he hasn't be good over the last two games. That chip he attempted may have got him subbed off. Iwobi is still very young but I'm hoping Campbell gets more games this year. Walcott is definitely hit and miss. Still no idea if he'll play as striker or winger this year.

[LDG]

I know we need players, and I think we all know where those players are needed.

That's only part of the problem though. If we fail to change our ways in other aspects, then we will continue to fail. It's proven that we fail to prepare for games, motivate ourselves or adapt during the game when required. Add in our injury record, and you have a recipe for failure.

This won't change. It never does.

[mastermind84]

Even on a bad day, Theo Walcott couldn’t go as long as Giroud did without scoring a goal.
he did last season, or came close to it.


Also, team selection is important. I’m a little worried by Xhaka. He was a bit too easy to stifle and after the first goal City dominated us. Elneny was a lot better and should play for sure. I think he’s essential. Which opens up the can of worms we see every season. Square pegs in round holes to try appease bruised egos. Wenger will have to be tough and drop certain players. We’ve collected far too many central midfielders and it’s good to have back up but I don’t trust him to rotate or keep in players that are vital. I don’t want to see Ramsey played out wide just to give him game time or Coquelin tested at CB just so he can kill two birds with one stone.
Ramsey out wide is fine, its a 3rd CM and he will tuck in anyway. That helps us dominate the middle more.

The Xhaka issue will come up if we play Coquelin beside him. Easy to double on Xhaka, and Gabriel is not a ball player. In some ways, Gabriel's injury isnt the worse thing because Chambers, Bielek, Kos, and Holding can all play the ball in between the lines. Makes it difficult to double Xhaka, imo. Should play Ramsey or Elneny with Xhaka to free up passing lanes.

[Power n Glory]

he did last season, or came close to it.


Ramsey out wide is fine, its a 3rd CM and he will tuck in anyway. That helps us dominate the middle more.

The Xhaka issue will come up if we play Coquelin beside him. Easy to double on Xhaka, and Gabriel is not a ball player. In some ways, Gabriel's injury isnt the worse thing because Chambers, Bielek, Kos, and Holding can all play the ball in between the lines. Makes it difficult to double Xhaka, imo. Should play Ramsey or Elneny with Xhaka to free up passing lanes.

You've got to learn how to put arguments into context. I'm talking about Theo playing as striker not as a winger.

As for Xhaka, you said he's a player that can hold the midfield on his own and liberate both Jack and Ramsey to roam forward in a 4-3-3. It's unfair to put the blame on Coquelin (again) after Elneny just showed how it's done whilst playing without Xhaka. If you haven't watched the 2nd half of the City game, it's worth watching to see what I'm talking about. Coquelin is not the problem. You can't remain static in midfield and think you'll have all the time in the world to make a pass. Blink mentioned Xhaka had a lot of time to spray those passes around when watching those youtube clips. He may need some time to adapt to a faster league. But watching Elneny, how he kept things ticking was that he never stopped running when the ball was deep. If it went to the wing backs or CB he's always running to make himself available or finding the gaps so the pass can be made to him at the right angle. He'd always slip away from his marker and not point elsewhere so he doesn't receive the ball. I like that about him and it's also why Cazorla works well even if playing with Coquelin.

[Power n Glory]

I know we need players, and I think we all know where those players are needed.

That's only part of the problem though. If we fail to change our ways in other aspects, then we will continue to fail. It's proven that we fail to prepare for games, motivate ourselves or adapt during the game when required. Add in our injury record, and you have a recipe for failure.

This won't change. It never does.

Yeah, for starters we need to be prepared for Klopp's team to play a high and aggressive pressing game for starters. Central midfield will need to be prepared and try to break up play and then pass the ball out for the counter. I guess when it comes to transfers I'm hoping the type of player he buys is an indication of a change in tactics and approach. Since we've bought another CM and kids.....last thing I'm holding on to is finding internal solutions. I could at least find some sort of enjoyment from watching Theo or Sanchez up front with Campbell, IwobI and the other new players in the line up. Something different and not so predictable this season at least.

[mastermind84]

You've got to learn how to put arguments into context. I'm talking about Theo playing as striker not as a winger.
Goal scoring is goal scoring, if you can score you should be able to from anywhere in the attacking 3rd. THats why we like Alexis so much. Theo had his chances and did not take them.


As for Xhaka, you said he's a player that can hold the midfield on his own and liberate both Jack and Ramsey to roam forward in a 4-3-3. It's unfair to put the blame on Coquelin (again) after Elneny just showed how it's done whilst playing without Xhaka. If you haven't watched the 2nd half of the City game, it's worth watching to see what I'm talking about. Coquelin is not the problem. You can't remain static in midfield and think you'll have all the time in the world to make a pass. Blink mentioned Xhaka had a lot of time to spray those passes around when watching those youtube clips. He may need some time to adapt to a faster league. But watching Elneny, how he kept things ticking was that he never stopped running when the ball was deep. If it went to the wing backs or CB he's always running to make himself available or finding the gaps so the pass can be made to him at the right angle. He'd always slip away from his marker and not point elsewhere so he doesn't receive the ball. I like that about him and it's also why Cazorla works well even if playing with Coquelin.
I will always put the blame on Coquelin. You need ball players in that part of the midfield. Xhaka can liberate others, but he needs others around him to liberate too.

Cazorla works with Coquelin because they stand close together because they mask the others deficiencies (Cazorla not be able to run and Coquelin being terrible on the ball). Watch where Xhaka is on the pitch in relation to who he is partnering with in comparison to Coqzorla. Xhaka often ends up everywhere, but sometimes further back with the CBs. Coqzorla are often pushing up. Its different.

Elneny and Xhaka would be dynamic because Elneny doesnt have to be near Xhaka as Xhaka can find him, and Elneny moves it quickly. I think Xhaka and Ramsey would work well too because of Ramsey being a bit more forward.

The only person I really dont want partnering Xhaka is Santi because he that is a slow midfield which will expose us.

[Power n Glory]

Goal scoring is goal scoring, if you can score you should be able to from anywhere in the attacking 3rd. THats why we like Alexis so much. Theo had his chances and did not take them.


I will always put the blame on Coquelin. You need ball players in that part of the midfield. Xhaka can liberate others, but he needs others around him to liberate too.

Cazorla works with Coquelin because they stand close together because they mask the others deficiencies (Cazorla not be able to run and Coquelin being terrible on the ball). Watch where Xhaka is on the pitch in relation to who he is partnering with in comparison to Coqzorla. Xhaka often ends up everywhere, but sometimes further back with the CBs. Coqzorla are often pushing up. Its different.

Elneny and Xhaka would be dynamic because Elneny doesnt have to be near Xhaka as Xhaka can find him, and Elneny moves it quickly. I think Xhaka and Ramsey would work well too because of Ramsey being a bit more forward.

The only person I really dont want partnering Xhaka is Santi because he that is a slow midfield which will expose us.


Goal scoring is goal scoring, if you can score you should be able to from anywhere in the attacking 3rd. THats why we like Alexis so much. Theo had his chances and did not take them.

Really? Put Giroud out wide, you think he's more likely to score more or less?

How comes Elneny was able to work well with Coquelin? You'd have to watch the game to comment.

[mastermind84]

Really? Put Giroud out wide, you think he's more likely to score more or less?

How comes Elneny was able to work well with Coquelin? You'd have to watch the game to comment.

The problem with a lot of football fans is that we think positions are static. Just because they start out wide does not mean they are playing like chalk line and cross winger. Especially in our formation where we ask our fullbacks to provide the width. Theo's finishing was abysmal last season, but he still got his chances. That was the problem. Wenger's tactics allows freedom of attacking movement provided its in space, so if you find space in front of goal you take it. I kind of want Ozil out on the right to start because I think it will give him more freedom.

Elneny didnt work well with Coquelin. Did you watch the West Ham game last season? We couldnt keep the ball. I feel that match is what lead Wenger and Co to rubberstamp the Xhaka deal lol. The two played together the next week against Crystal Palace, then Coquelin was put in the bushes from then onward. Neither Elneny or Coquelin are progressive with their passing.

[Herbert_Chapman's_Zombie]

Essentially next weekend we are trying to fit our three best central midfielders from the avaliable five.

Not just in terms of individual ability but who will best play together

My preference would be Xhaka, Elneny and Cazorla (who would be playing the Ozil role)

And assuming we sign no-one else (which is an assumption we should be very prepared to make) between now and Sunday


My line up would be Cech, Bellerin, Chambers, Koscielny, Gibbs, Xhaka, Elneny, Cazorla, Alexis, Ox and Walcott

I don't think Wenger has any choice but to risk Koscielny he's not actually injured, this short of match fitness thing won't wash....when Ramsey played on Sunday five weeks after playing against Belgium, and Koscielny will be playing five weeks after playing Portugal.

[Power n Glory]

The problem with a lot of football fans is that we think positions are static. Just because they start out wide does not mean they are playing like chalk line and cross winger. Especially in our formation where we ask our fullbacks to provide the width. Theo's finishing was abysmal last season, but he still got his chances. That was the problem. Wenger's tactics allows freedom of attacking movement provided its in space, so if you find space in front of goal you take it. I kind of want Ozil out on the right to start because I think it will give him more freedom.

Elneny didnt work well with Coquelin. Did you watch the West Ham game last season? We couldnt keep the ball. I feel that match is what lead Wenger and Co to rubberstamp the Xhaka deal lol. The two played together the next week against Crystal Palace, then Coquelin was put in the bushes from then onward. Neither Elneny or Coquelin are progressive with their passing.

:doh: You didn't watch the game yesterday so never mind. Elneny not progressive with his passing?

We play fluid football but statistically central players are more likely to find themselves in a better shooting position. But say we were to play Giroud wide, how likely is he to find himself in the right position to shoot even if our formation is fluid?

[Power n Glory]

It doesn't even have to go that far with Giroud playing on the wing. Why else would Welbeck and Sturridge push to play up front rather than on the wings?

[mastermind84]

:doh: You didn't watch the game yesterday so never mind. Elneny not progressive with his passing?
he isnt. Or at least he wasnt last season. Elneny wasnt a progressive passer and that did not help our midfield.

I have seen an improvement in that this preseason, but its not enough to say he is a progressive passer. He doesn't. Thats not really a slight on him either. Its not his game, and Im cool with that.


We play fluid football but statistically central players are more likely to find themselves in a better shooting position. But say we were to play Giroud wide, how likely is he to find himself in the right position to shoot even if our formation is fluid?
I dont think Giroud would spend all of his time out wide like I feel you are insinuating.

Alexis didnt find himself out wide all the time either.

[mastermind84]

It doesn't even have to go that far with Giroud playing on the wing. Why else would Welbeck and Sturridge push to play up front rather than on the wings?

because of English football mindset, imo.

Theo showed he could score a bunch of goals out wide in the past. So has guys like Bale, C., Messi, even Muller, Robben, etc.

[Power n Glory]

he isnt. Or at least he wasnt last season. Elneny wasnt a progressive passer and that did not help our midfield.

I have seen an improvement in that this preseason, but its not enough to say he is a progressive passer. He doesn't. Thats not really a slight on him either. Its not his game, and Im cool with that.


I dont think Giroud would spend all of his time out wide like I feel you are insinuating.

Alexis didnt find himself out wide all the time either.

We'll agree to disagree on Elneny. If you watch the City game things may become more clear. But a partnership with Xhaka is worth seeing.

I’m not insinuating the players have to stay wide but we often have a congestion problem when everyone wants to crowd the middle. You also have to consider the amount of ground a player has to cover moving from the flanks to the centre. Timing of runs is important and if you’re often coming from a deep area of the field, the best chances won’t fall to a winger compared to a striker. Stay too close to the centre you leave the wing exposed, so if the ball breaks down your side for a counter you have a lot of ground to cover. It’s why Wenger said Walcott isn’t good on defence.

[Power n Glory]

because of English football mindset, imo.

Theo showed he could score a bunch of goals out wide in the past. So has guys like Bale, C., Messi, even Muller, Robben, etc.

You've listed some of the best in the world and guys that can dribble.

Another example. Where is Welbeck more likely to score goals from? Out wide or middle?

[mastermind84]

You've listed some of the best in the world and guys that can dribble.

Another example. Where is Welbeck more likely to score goals from? Out wide or middle?

Welbeck is not scoring anywhere on the pitch. He is not a goal scorer centrally or out wide.

Theo has shown he can score out wide.

[fakeyank]

Essentially next weekend we are trying to fit our three best central midfielders from the avaliable five.

Not just in terms of individual ability but who will best play together

My preference would be Xhaka, Elneny and Cazorla (who would be playing the Ozil role)

And assuming we sign no-one else (which is an assumption we should be very prepared to make) between now and Sunday


My line up would be Cech, Bellerin, Chambers, Koscielny, Gibbs, Xhaka, Elneny, Cazorla, Alexis, Ox and Walcott

I don't think Wenger has any choice but to risk Koscielny he's not actually injured, this short of match fitness thing won't wash....when Ramsey played on Sunday five weeks after playing against Belgium, and Koscielny will be playing five weeks after playing Portugal.

Wenger will put his love child Ramsey in there somehow. My bet is that he will replace Ox on the right.

[Power n Glory]

Welbeck is not scoring anywhere on the pitch. He is not a goal scorer centrally or out wide.

Theo has shown he can score out wide.

The goals he has scored for us last season. Was it against Everton? That goal.

Put it this way, the front attacking three players, if the wide players beat their marker, they are more likely to find themselves in a crossing position or shooting from an angle with less of the goal to aim at.

Central striker, beat his marker he has a one on one with the keeper and the whole goal exposed. Get what I mean?

[Power n Glory]

Welbeck is not scoring anywhere on the pitch. He is not a goal scorer centrally or out wide.

Theo has shown he can score out wide.

Wait, what the heck are we arguing about? :lol: If Theo can score from the wings what makes you think he can't score from the middle?

[mastermind84]

Wait, what the heck are we arguing about? :lol: If Theo can score from the wings what makes you think he can't score from the middle?

im not sure, lol

I thought all I said is that positions are not fixed. If you can score goals, you will from anywhere in the attacking 3rd.

[Power n Glory]

:lol: OK let's knock this off.

[rodders]

Wenger continues with his Violin whilst the whole bloody lot goes up in flames, without a Fire engine in sight.

[Özim]

All I can say is thank god for the Olympics, have no interest in the PL the way things are going, as usual no real changes at the club despite glaringly obvious problems that have been there for years, LeClown is probably the most stubborn deluded individual we've ever come across and when he fails again (as he always done) it will come as no great surprise, but as usual he'll carry on with no repercussions.

No idea how people can still support this level of incompetence and stubborness, frankly don't really care what happens in the coming season, pretty sure he'll get schooled again by Mourinho though.

[The Emirates Gallactico]

Wenger will put his love child Ramsey in there somehow. My bet is that he will replace Ox on the right.

Tbh I'd much rather have Ramsey on the right than Ox given how poor the latter has been.

In fact, despite how much he wants to play centre I think Ramsey is more suited to the right side position as it makes use of his strengths, chiefly his late runs into the box and his goal scoring instincts. Either there or behind the striker like yesterday though the obvious problem with that position is that Ozil exists.

Seems to be a Stevie Gerrard situation all over again tbh.



Anyway what I think the team will be for Liverpool:

Cech

Bellerin
Chambers
Monreal
Gibbs

Xhaka
Santi
Ozil

Ramsey
Iwobi
Alexis

[hobson's choice]

Tbh I'd much rather have Ramsey on the right than Ox given how poor the latter has been.

In fact, despite how much he wants to play centre I think Ramsey is more suited to the right side position as it makes use of his strengths, chiefly his late runs into the box and his goal scoring instincts. Either there or behind the striker like yesterday though the obvious problem with that position is that Ozil exists.

Seems to be a Stevie Gerrard situation all over again tbh.



Anyway what I think the team will be for Liverpool:

Cech

Bellerin
Chambers
Monreal
Gibbs

Xhaka
Santi
Ozil

Ramsey
Iwobi
Alexis


Ramsey is player that really in some way handicaps this team. I really hope someone comes for him next summer.

Him and this team is not a good match

[Kano]

He played perfectly well in the same team as Coq and Santi in 2015.

He's a definite starter this weekend.

[The Emirates Gallactico]

Ramsey is player that really in some way handicaps this team. I really hope someone comes for him next summer.

Him and this team is not a good match

He only handicaps the team if you play him in the wrong position and expect him to do things which he's not capable of, which is what Wenger did for a lot of last season: try and use him as a Santi deputy when he clearly can't dictate the tempo like he can ....... which is why Wenger ultimately got in Elneny I suspect.

As we've seen a few seasons ago and at the Euros, there's a quality player there who's extremely suited for English football that if used correctly could be devastating in terms of output.

[Power n Glory]

He only handicaps the team if you play him in the wrong position and expect him to do things which he's not capable of, which is what Wenger did for a lot of last season: try and use him as a Santi deputy when he clearly can't dictate the tempo like he can ....... which is why Wenger ultimately got in Elneny I suspect.

As we've seen a few seasons ago and at the Euros, there's a quality player there who's extremely suited for English football that if used correctly could be devastating in terms of output.

What's the wrong position? He has a lot of energy but sometimes just lacks that polish. Inconsistent with his control, passing and finishing sometimes. He should be a CM but that hasn't worked out. A more advanced role in place of Cazorla or Ozil means we lose that final ball. But the positive is that we get someone willing to attack the box more and go for goal. But it would feel like we're missing a trick if we drop Ozil or Cazorla from that position if we play Sanchez or Walcott up front.

On the right, I'd go with Campbell or Iwobi. Really not sure where his best position is but I think he'll make his own case if he plays well.

[fakeyank]

What's the wrong position? He has a lot of energy but sometimes just lacks that polish. Inconsistent with his control, passing and finishing sometimes. He should be a CM but that hasn't worked out. A more advanced role in place of Cazorla or Ozil means we lose that final ball. But the positive is that we get someone willing to attack the box more and go for goal. But it would feel like we're missing a trick if we drop Ozil or Cazorla from that position if we play Sanchez or Walcott up front.

On the right, I'd go with Campbell or Iwobi. Really not sure where his best position is but I think he'll make his own case if he plays well.

His best position is on Wengers lap.

[hobson's choice]

He only handicaps the team if you play him in the wrong position and expect him to do things which he's not capable of, which is what Wenger did for a lot of last season: try and use him as a Santi deputy when he clearly can't dictate the tempo like he can ....... which is why Wenger ultimately got in Elneny I suspect.

As we've seen a few seasons ago and at the Euros, there's a quality player there who's extremely suited for English football that if used correctly could be devastating in terms of output.


Hey, Ramsey is a luxury player who really isn't luxurious.

My opinion, sooner he leaves, better this team will be, and he will be.

[hobson's choice]

He played perfectly well in the same team as Coq and Santi in 2015.

He's a definite starter this weekend.


Agree to disagree

Just doesn't fit with this squad

[The Emirates Gallactico]

What's the wrong position? He has a lot of energy but sometimes just lacks that polish. Inconsistent with his control, passing and finishing sometimes. He should be a CM but that hasn't worked out. A more advanced role in place of Cazorla or Ozil means we lose that final ball. But the positive is that we get someone willing to attack the box more and go for goal. But it would feel like we're missing a trick if we drop Ozil or Cazorla from that position if we play Sanchez or Walcott up front.

On the right, I'd go with Campbell or Iwobi. Really not sure where his best position is but I think he'll make his own case if he plays well.

Deep lying playmaker would definitely be the wrong position. He simply doesn't have the technical ability or composure on the ball that a Santi or Elneny has to function in the role. I think against weaker team at home he could play the role of CM alongside a passer Santi/Elneny as his work rate can compensate for the defensive muscle we'd lose but really, it needs to be on the right or behind the striker (like he does for Wales).

At any rate, we were already down about twenty or thirty goals last season and additionally with the most likely possibility of yet another window without a striker being bought, we really could do with Ramsey hitting his goal scoring stride and chipping in with 15 goals this season. I mean as majestic as Ozil is, his goal return is frankly not good enough for his position. I really wouldn't mind seeing Ozil/Ramsey alternating depending on the opposition and or the injury situation.

[The Emirates Gallactico]

Hey, Ramsey is a luxury player who really isn't luxurious.

My opinion, sooner he leaves, better this team will be, and he will be.

Midfielders with the goal return that Ramsey provides are an extremely valuable commodity and you want us get rid off him? For what? To get another tippy tappy midfielder who has great technical ability but couldn't put the ball into the net to save his life? :rolleyes:

The likes of Mourinho and Conte would bite your hand off to get a player of Ramsey's calibre.

[Xhaka Can’t]

Didn't Wenger once say that he wanted the transfer window to be closed before the season started?

Guy is so out of his depth it's unreal

I don't have a problem with Wenger's view on that.

What I do have a problem with (in amongst all my other problems with him) is his stubbornness.

Everyone has been calling out for him to sign a striker. Those that love the club and those that hate the club have been saying it is critical that we sign one.

But Wenger knows best and he is going to prove everyone wrong and will continue to try and do that, even when everyone has been proved right.

[Niall_Quinn]

Midfielders with the goal return that Ramsey provides are an extremely valuable commodity and you want us get rid off him? For what? To get another tippy tappy midfielder who has great technical ability but couldn't put the ball into the net to save his life? :rolleyes:

The likes of Mourinho and Conte would bite your hand off to get a player of Ramsey's calibre.

Ramsey was probably the best player at the Euros. We saw how a competent manager with far fewer resources could get the best out of the player. It's very hard to get a read on any of our players considering who we have in charge.

[alexander]

Ramsey was probably the best player at the Euros. We saw how a competent manager with far fewer resources could get the best out of the player. It's very hard to get a read on any of our players considering who we have in charge.

There seems to be a fair bit of hatred for ramsey on here at times. Ive always thought he was a good player, but where he has been played has been wrong. Always looks like he should be a Lampard type player, bursting forward and goal scoring. Not played on the right or deep. But we dont really have that option open to us.

[mastermind84]

Deep lying playmaker would definitely be the wrong position. He simply doesn't have the technical ability or composure on the ball that a Santi or Elneny has to function in the role. I think against weaker team at home he could play the role of CM alongside a passer Santi/Elneny as his work rate can compensate for the defensive muscle we'd lose but really, it needs to be on the right or behind the striker (like he does for Wales).

At any rate, we were already down about twenty or thirty goals last season and additionally with the most likely possibility of yet another window without a striker being bought, we really could do with Ramsey hitting his goal scoring stride and chipping in with 15 goals this season. I mean as majestic as Ozil is, his goal return is frankly not good enough for his position. I really wouldn't mind seeing Ozil/Ramsey alternating depending on the opposition and or the injury situation.
if you play Ramsey as a 3rd CM, he could be devastating.

Shoot, he may even do great next to Xhaka.

Its not a problem of fitting anyone into the team, imo. Ramsey, Ozil, Xhaka, Elneny, Alexis should be the only players we are trying to fit in the midfield and attacking positions. They can all fit. You can plot everyone else after that, but those guys could/should be in our best attacking side.


There seems to be a fair bit of hatred for ramsey on here at times.
its not just on here, the fans have never warmed to Ramsey. Maybe its because so many are invested in Wilshere? Its strange to me.

[Goonermerree]

I think fans get frustrated with Ramsey when he shoots and doesn't get the shot on target, or persists with little flicks which result in giving away possession. I hope he can play with the same effort for us as he did for Wales in the Euros.

[fakeyank]

My gripe against him is that he almost never covers for his fellow midfielders. He goes on his 'hollywood' runs all too often abandoning his team. I'd rather have a player with less talent playing for the team than a moran playing for himself.

[mastermind84]

I think fans get frustrated with Ramsey when he shoots and doesn't get the shot on target, or persists with little flicks which result in giving away possession. I hope he can play with the same effort for us as he did for Wales in the Euros.
He doesnt give the ball away as much as many think.

He also scored a winning goal in a cup final for the club.


My gripe against him is that he almost never covers for his fellow midfielders. He goes on his 'hollywood' runs all too often abandoning his team. I'd rather have a player with less talent playing for the team than a moran playing for himself.
Does this actually happen or do you want to think it happens?


Ramsey has flaws, but he is also a devastating player when used correctly. Our manager has not for a few years.

[fakeyank]

Does this actually happen or do you want to think it happens?


Ramsey has flaws, but he is also a devastating player when used correctly. Our manager has not for a few years.

I actually think he is a great player, so there is no need for me to 'imagine' things. Unfortunately he is too selfish of a player for my liking.

[mastermind84]

I actually think he is a great player, so there is no need for me to 'imagine' things. Unfortunately he is too selfish of a player for my liking.
He isn't selfish.

He often does what the manager asks.

There were a few matches last season where he held to allow Elneny the forward runs.

I don't think anyone on this team is selfish except Alexis.

[Kano]

Swansea's Ayew to West Ham for £20m :lol:

[Kano]

And Palace turn down an £18m bid for Bolaise. Wow.

[Marc Overmars]

I don't think Ramsey is selfish as such, I just think his game with us is a little chaotic and doesn't really have a structure. He's a very good player though but his performances haven't been as effective as they perhaps should be. He was stunning in 13/14 and if he can rediscover even a fraction of that form we'll be better for it.

[Power n Glory]

Deep lying playmaker would definitely be the wrong position. He simply doesn't have the technical ability or composure on the ball that a Santi or Elneny has to function in the role. I think against weaker team at home he could play the role of CM alongside a passer Santi/Elneny as his work rate can compensate for the defensive muscle we'd lose but really, it needs to be on the right or behind the striker (like he does for Wales).

At any rate, we were already down about twenty or thirty goals last season and additionally with the most likely possibility of yet another window without a striker being bought, we really could do with Ramsey hitting his goal scoring stride and chipping in with 15 goals this season. I mean as majestic as Ozil is, his goal return is frankly not good enough for his position. I really wouldn't mind seeing Ozil/Ramsey alternating depending on the opposition and or the injury situation.

Yeah, I hear you. Behind the striker seems like an ideal position for him. Closer to the box butbi still worry about that lack of finesse with his control and passing. We'll see how the season pans out. Agree on Ozil also and think he needs to find his shooting boots. Be a bit more aggressive around the box..

[Power n Glory]

He doesnt give the ball away as much as many think.

He also scored a winning goal in a cup final for the club.


Does this actually happen or do you want to think it happens?


Ramsey has flaws, but he is also a devastating player when used correctly. Our manager has not for a few years.

You said something earlier about Coquelin and Santi working together because they play closer together. That's what a midfield unit really should be doing and Ramsey often wanders too far up the pitch to support the attack.

[Ralpheroo72]

3 More years of this shit. Im done if they give him a new contract. Its not his money, the silly old goat!

http://news.arseblog.com/2016/08/wenger-you-have-to-spend-like-its-your-own-money/?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=facebook

[Marc Overmars]

It's unreal how much of a parody of himself he is.

[Kano]

Jess Rodriguez has gone to PSG for £20m or so.

[Munchies]

https://scontent-lhr3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-0/s480x480/13903303_10153949865887746_6691243253388571878_n.j pg?oh=2a02b6b1e16094e46727787473b54600&oe=5823A417

Pogba confirmed and completed

£89m could rise with add ons

[fakeyank]

3 More years of this shit. Im done if they give him a new contract. Its not his money, the silly old goat!

http://news.arseblog.com/2016/08/wenger-you-have-to-spend-like-its-your-own-money/?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=facebook

You read the blog and you know what to expect but reading the comments infuriates me more. That in a nutshell is what the MAIN problem is at this club.. the fans who cant seem to separate Arsene from Arsenal. Unfortunately they are the majority and will do fuck all despite us underachieving year after year. We might as well give AW a lifelong contract and put us fans out of our misery of hope.

[Maestro]

3 More years of this shit. Im done if they give him a new contract. Its not his money, the silly old goat!

http://news.arseblog.com/2016/08/wenger-you-have-to-spend-like-its-your-own-money/?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=facebook

some interesting comments

0 league titles in 13yrs?
0 champions league in 20yrs?
0 league cups in 20years?
0 Europa league in 20yrs?
2 FA Cups in 12yrs?

[Niall_Quinn]

“I’ve said to our scouts to do the lower leagues because the good players are there now. Don’t forget we have many foreign players in the Premier League, but good English players have to go down to develop.”

:haha:


And perhaps part of this has been put into practice already with the signing of 20 year old Rob Holding from Bolton this summer. Before that the last player signed from a lower division club was Carl Jenkinson from Charlton.

The club had to offer his father, a well-known singer, a gig at the Arsenal Charity Ball at the end of that season before the deal was agreed.

:haha: :haha:

http://news.arseblog.com/2016/08/arsenal-scouting-lower-leagues-for-hungry-players/

:haha: :haha: :haha:

[Marc Overmars]

The board are complicit in giving him a platform to operate the way he does, as it's to their financial gain. However those comments on spending confirm pretty much everything we already suspected about him. He is the judge, jury and executioner at the club. Throw in those comments on having to calm down Gazidis, it's cast-iron. There is no hope with him as manager anymore, he holds far too much influence.

[selassie]

Just been reading about our interest in Jonny Evans and it seems it is genuinely real. Why does Wenger do this to us? Why do we always have to go for the cheap stop gap option? Why can't we just go into the market and buy a top quality CB like our rivals do? Or at the very least go for a young CB with world class potential? I'm not spoilt, I don't expect Pogba type signings but I expect us to be aiming higher than Jonny Evans, it disgusts me that we are strongly linked with him, he's not even young.

[Shaqiri Is Boss]

John Stones is seemingly in City's squad on UEFA's website :lol:

[Power n Glory]

The board are complicit in giving him a platform to operate the way he does, as it's to their financial gain. However those comments on spending confirm pretty much everything we already suspected about him. He is the judge, jury and executioner at the club. Throw in those comments on having to calm down Gazidis, it's cast-iron. There is no hope with him as manager anymore, he holds far too much influence.


“I’m scared we now have players under 17, under 18, who make £1m a year. When Ian Wright was earning that, he’d scored goals, he’d put his body on the line. Now, before they start, they are millionaires – a young player who has not even played.”

I don't get this part. Why has he been so quick to offer players a new contract?

This for example.

http://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news/alex-iwobi-agrees-new-30000-7689010

Iwobi signed a 10k deal last October and now in less than a year he's gone up to £30k. His last deal was set to run until 2019. Why offer him a new deal if that's his argument? Why have a socialist wage structure at all?

[Özim]

I don't get this part. Why has he been so quick to offer players a new contract?

This for example.

http://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news/alex-iwobi-agrees-new-30000-7689010

Iwobi signed a 10k deal last October and now in less than a year he's gone up to £30k. His last deal was set to run until 2019. Why offer him a new deal if that's his argument? Why have a socialist wage structure at all?

He's the main culprit ironically, he's pays overrated wannabe's at 16 millions to sign up with the club and they are millionaires even if they are average, some of the stuff he says really is nuts, it seems like there's something genuinely wrong with him when he talks these days.

[Özim]

Just been reading about our interest in Jonny Evans and it seems it is genuinely real. Why does Wenger do this to us? Why do we always have to go for the cheap stop gap option? Why can't we just go into the market and buy a top quality CB like our rivals do? Or at the very least go for a young CB with world class potential? I'm not spoilt, I don't expect Pogba type signings but I expect us to be aiming higher than Jonny Evans, it disgusts me that we are strongly linked with him, he's not even young.

I'm just sick with Wenger, I'm really starting to wish he'd never come to the club, yes he did great things earlier in his career but look at what we've had for 10+ years since, he destroying this club in ever way, fans are turning their backs on it in ways that would have never happened before he arrived.

What worse is he just simply doesn't care as long as he does things his way, which also means doing things the oppositive way to everyone else and the illogical way, Man U have just signed Pogba and we've signed noone and now seem to be after some second rate defender to fill a gap Wenger has allowed to appear, it's hard to describe how bad a manager he is right now, perhaps not in terms of where we are placed in the league, but certainly everything else he does.

[Power n Glory]

He's the main culprit ironically, he's pays overrated wannabe's at 16 millions to sign up with the club and they are millionaires even if they are average, some of the stuff he says really is nuts, it seems like there's something genuinely wrong with him when he talks these days.


“I’ve fought all my life for footballers to make money but when you pay them before they produce it can kill the hunger,” he said.

It really is nuts. I agree with him when he says the above but he enables that. Ok, technically I don’t think we’re making 16 and 17 year olds millionaires. But we’ve made plenty of players millionaires that are still developing and not even 21 years old. Iwobi signing a new deal, again, I don’t see why it’s needed. There is no danger of him leaving. He hasn’t played enough games to attract any serious attention from other clubs and if he a bigger club wanted him bad enough they could easily offer him more than £30k but obviously that won’t happen unless he plays really well. Then you could argue it’s worth paying up the wages. We really are doing things backwards. I wish someone would press him on these contradictions.

[Marc Overmars]

City sign Stones for £50m. :wacko:

[Marc Overmars]

And Everton replace him with Ashley Williams.

[Niall_Quinn]

Just been reading about our interest in Jonny Evans and it seems it is genuinely real. Why does Wenger do this to us? Why do we always have to go for the cheap stop gap option? Why can't we just go into the market and buy a top quality CB like our rivals do? Or at the very least go for a young CB with world class potential? I'm not spoilt, I don't expect Pogba type signings but I expect us to be aiming higher than Jonny Evans, it disgusts me that we are strongly linked with him, he's not even young.

The hilarious part about the Evans saga is apparently we've bid below WBAs valuation. The sticking point for Arsenal bringing in a journeyman from WBA is the fee. Looks like second rate is beyond us. What are our third rate options?

[Niall_Quinn]

And Everton replace him with Ashley Williams.

Deals can't be done you know. It is impossible.

[Niall_Quinn]

City sign Stones for £50m. :wacko:

Utd hit all their targets.
The gypos have now landed all their targets.
The chavs have got 2 from 3 and may yet get number 3.

We got one, lost three and shut up shop.

There is no comparison here. We are not in this game.

[Marc Overmars]

They've all got new managers with a plan. While we're stuck with a bloke who hasn't had a plan in 10 years.

[Ralpheroo72]

Does anyone even care anymore? This window, more than any other, has shown Arsenal for what they really are. We are cheapskates, sniffing around bins, feeding off scraps. Fans fill the stadium every week, buy all the fucking shirts etc, club rakes in millions. I've lost interest now, fuck it.

[Özim]

Evans is a very possible rumour, we love Man U rejects, Silvestre, Wellbeck, we love to sign players who were 2nd rate for them, cos we're a 2nd rate club and that's what 2nd rate clubs do.

Ozil and Sanchez must be getting ready to find a new club next summer, surely they must have realised by now that the club and manager are a complete joke?

[Niall_Quinn]

Does anyone even care anymore? This window, more than any other, has shown Arsenal for what they really are. We are cheapskates, sniffing around bins, feeding off scraps. Fans fill the stadium every week, buy all the fucking shirts etc, club rakes in millions. I've lost interest now, fuck it.

That's what they want. There are 10 consumers ready to fill your seat once reserved for fans. The fans pissing off is a huge bonus for the bean counters. But on the other hand, how many traditional fans have the time and the huge amounts of money to blow in return for watching tip, tap and guaranteed failure? Once you let the sharks in they are going to eat until there's nothing left to eat.

[Özim]

City sign Stones for £50m. :wacko:

They wanted the player, they paid the money, simple really.

Confirms we are the only club who can't conclude transfers because we're too cheap and our player valuations are stuck in the 90s.

I hope the fans make their feelings clear in the Liverpool game, they probably won't but frankly couldn't give a damn about that result it won't make a difference to our season unless we get heavily beaten and so it forces the managers hand like last time, cos let's face it that's the only way we're going to see any players come in, problem is they'll probably be cheap opportunistic punts on players that aren't suitable anyway.

[Özim]

And Everton replace him with Ashley Williams.

Can't be right surely, a club identifying a player and signing him, surely not?

[Bumble]

Evans is a very possible rumour, we love Man U rejects, Silvestre, Wellbeck, we love to sign players who were 2nd rate for them, cos we're a 2nd rate club and that's what 2nd rate clubs do.

Ozil and Sanchez must be getting ready to find a new club next summer, surely they must have realised by now that the club and manager are a complete joke?

I wish you would stop picking on Welbeck... I rate him and he definitely adds something to the team and squad. Silvestre was toilet and the fact we paid a fee for him insulting. If we sign Evans... wtf. Don't know why we don't or didn't bid for Williams, he would have been cheap relatively. Also he is 31 therefore wont hold back Holding/Chambers long term.

[Herbert_Chapman's_Zombie]

Does anyone even care anymore? This window, more than any other, has shown Arsenal for what they really are. We are cheapskates, sniffing around bins, feeding off scraps. Fans fill the stadium every week, buy all the fucking shirts etc, club rakes in millions. I've lost interest now, fuck it.

The fact that these discussions still carry on is a sign that people care even if it would be easier not to

No-one on here (not even Zim) is going to go off and support another team and that's why we are still getting angry over things that are depressingly familiar

Although that said, whilst i appreciate what is going on is a debacle i just can't get angry about it. I just won't invest money in match tickets or merchandise, not as a political protest in the hopes of changing things but simply because if i don't like what's happening it seems counter intuitive to hand over money to that operation. I have no doubt that other people will pay money when i won't, but that's up to them....the important thing is it won't be my money....that's all that matters.

[fakeyank]

I think Ozil has nightmares every night when he thinks about the day he thought Arsene Wenger was a competent enough manager to sign for.

:pal:

[Munchies]

I wish you would stop picking on Welbeck... I rate him and he definitely adds something to the team and squad. Silvestre was toilet and the fact we paid a fee for him insulting. If we sign Evans... wtf. Don't know why we don't or didn't bid for Williams, he would have been cheap relatively. Also he is 31 therefore wont hold back Holding/Chambers long term.

Welbeck is not at the level we require, if we're serious about winning the big trophies, at this club though.

[McNamara That Ghost...]

Ok defenders being signed for more than was paid for Zidane.

Football. :rose:

[Bumble]

Welbeck is not at the level we require, if we're serious about winning the big trophies, at this club though.

he is though... you don't need 11 super star players... you need guys who work hard and always give 100%. When Parlour played he wasn't as good as those around him Vieira, Pires, Bergkamp, Henry and we won the league easily.

anyway I like Welbeck and think he has place in the team and squad.

[McNamara That Ghost...]

Bolasie going to Everton for near 30 million.

Sky Sports say anyway.

[AFC Leveller]

https://mobile.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=561921074013492&id=331362617069340

[selassie]

The hilarious part about the Evans saga is apparently we've bid below WBAs valuation. The sticking point for Arsenal bringing in a journeyman from WBA is the fee. Looks like second rate is beyond us. What are our third rate options?

I use to rate Wenger really highly back in the good old days, I just feel sorry for him now. Wenger is a Pragmatic coward, there I said it.

[selassie]

I wish you would stop picking on Welbeck... I rate him and he definitely adds something to the team and squad. Silvestre was toilet and the fact we paid a fee for him insulting. If we sign Evans... wtf. Don't know why we don't or didn't bid for Williams, he would have been cheap relatively. Also he is 31 therefore wont hold back Holding/Chambers long term.

The fact that we are discussing making a signing because the said player is relatively cheap is absolutely ridiculous. We are rolling in cash but refuse to spend it. A club of our stature should be aggressively pursuing top quality options not rummaging around the scrapheap lowballing clubs for players who weren't deemed good enough by our rivals.

[Marc Overmars]

Bolasie going to Everton for near 30 million.

Sky Sports say anyway.

The foreign leagues must detest the PL.

[Kano]

The fact that we are discussing making a signing because the said player is relatively cheap is absolutely ridiculous. We are rolling in cash but refuse to spend it. A club of our stature should be aggressively pursuing top quality options not rummaging around the scrapheap lowballing clubs for players who weren't deemed good enough by our rivals.

You're only discussing it because the media are fucking with Arsenal fans ready to swallow it.

Mustafi is being spoken of just as much, so we believe what we want to.

[AFC Leveller]

David Ornstein, a very reliable journo esp with regards to Arsenal transfers, says we have "stepped up our efforts" to sign Mustafi after the Gabriel injury. He also says we want a striker but are not interested in Mahrez or Draxler.

[alexander]

Bolasie going to Everton for near 30 million.

Sky Sports say anyway.

what the hell?! I just dont get football anymore. Its really insane. All this money that the TV deals bring in, is that all coming from subscribers to Sky/BT etc? how can this even continue?

[Goonermerree]

what the hell?! I just dont get football anymore. Its really insane. All this money that the TV deals bring in, is that all coming from subscribers to Sky/BT etc? how can this even continue?

Not from me, I refuse to have Sky.

[AFC Leveller]

Had enough of this season tbh. Someone wake me up when the OAP has done one.

[alexander]

Not from me, I refuse to have Sky.

Ive never wanted to pay for it, all I know is people that are cancelling because they have got too expensive.

[Marc Overmars]

The bubble will only burst when fans stop paying Sky/BT for the product. Plenty of clubs would be buggered then. Remember when ITV digital collapsed? Imagine that on a bigger scale.

[Power n Glory]

The bubble will only burst when fans stop paying Sky/BT for the product. Plenty of clubs would be buggered then. Remember when ITV digital collapsed? Imagine that on a bigger scale.

UEFA have already expressed regret about selling the CL rights to BT Sport and not to free terrestrial TV. The TV ratings have taken a slide and they're not happy. What did they expect? It's a 3 year deal so we'll see if they sell the rights back to ITV or carve up the games like they used to. I hope fans resist paying for this shite. F1 is on the verge of fucking themselves over with their silly exclusive deal with Sky. Unfortunately, I can't see football tanking unless rocked by a similar scandal seen in Serie A.

[Niall_Quinn]

Marketing is a plague of locust. Everywhere, covering every blade one minute, gone the next with a wasteland left behind. No system can be inflated forever. British football will definitely crash, it's a question of when the last pound note will be scraped from the last fan's wallet. Right now the money men know it's smart to get in, but when they figure it's smart to get out it will be a ghost town.

Can't wait. Then maybe we'll be back to local kids kicking around on dirt pitches, which is where real football gets played anyway. I wouldn't mind but these millionaire players aren't even that good. Nowhere near as good as the players I grew up with. And the game sucks, except in South America where it's still a passion more than big business.

[Munchies]

Lewandowski posted this on instragram

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Cpcko5nW8AAc4-P.jpg
https://www.instagram.com/_rl9/?hl=en

ITKs are saying it's on

Wake up ffs, no chance in hell :haha:

He wants a pay increase

[Blink 1nce Quince 2wice]

even if a miracle happened and we signed Lacazette and Mustafi it all feels so underwhelming to me....

[Niall_Quinn]

even if a miracle happened and we signed Lacazette and Mustafi it all feels so underwhelming to me....

Monsieur could be handed the best 11 on the planet and he'd still find a way to fuck it up. The message has been going far and wide for a decade now. We are in the last couple of windows where we can attract the big names. I wonder how many are watching Ozil and Alexis now and thinking there but for the grace...? A couple more windows and nobody will want to come here. This dithering imbecile is driving everything into an inevitable reverse. Players will be racing out the door. Maybe that's why he came up with his latest bullshit about the best players being in the lower leagues.

[mastermind84]

The bubble will only burst when fans stop paying Sky/BT for the product. Plenty of clubs would be buggered then. Remember when ITV digital collapsed? Imagine that on a bigger scale.
Meh

The next generation is streaming. They won't need Sky/BT at that point. I'm surprised they aren't investing more into it now.

[Munchies]

Apparently West Ham just bid 50m euros on Lacazette

https://twitter.com/mattspiro/status/763282526228062208

He wants CL football though

West Ham :bow:

[Marc Overmars]

We've been linked with Bony today. :lol:

[Gooner23]

According to Ornstein we've stepped up our pursuit of Mustafi. Nice to know we've moved on from showing an interest. No rush though guys, we've got ages still until the season starts.

[LDG]

We've been linked with Bony today. :lol:

Some people on this forum wanted him back in the day :lol:

[Power n Glory]

We've been linked with Bony today. :lol:

Snap him up.

[Özim]

Some people actually believed it would be different this summer, he couldn't possibly go through the whole summer without signing a striker, he knows we need one etc etc even back in July people were saying there's still plenty of time to go, now a few days away from the season and nothing, just an injury crisis and a deluded manager still in charge, a man who has proved he'll never change and thinks that despite 10+ years of relative failure he's doing a great job.

Now as if this isn't enough, as a final kick in the teeth, as if to add insult to injury he comes out and says that he doesn't know how Ferguson copes without football management, suggesting he could go on for quite some time now, perhas beyond his 70th year, this man really has no shame.

IMO he's one of the worst managers out there, he brings no joy, no excitement and makes it worse by patronising the very people the club is reliant on, the day he eventually leaves or retires will be a great day in the history of this football club, hopefully then and only then we can put this horrible period behind us and forget it ever happened.

[Özim]

Ozil and Sanchez must be considering their options, no news on new contracts for them unsurprisingly, expect them to leave next summer with this farce going on.

[Power n Glory]

Some people on this forum wanted him back in the day :lol:

I'll stand by that. As a cheap striker that went to Swansea and scored 26 goals in 2013/14 and we needed a striker that season, I don't think it's a bad punt at all if he can score that many for Swansea. For City he's not starting games consistently.

[Herbert_Chapman's_Zombie]

I'll stand by that. As a cheap striker that went to Swansea and scored 26 goals in 2013/14 and we needed a striker that season, I don't think it's a bad punt at all if he can score that many for Swansea. For City he's not starting games consistently.

There's something wrong....I agree with you again, I also think he'd be a worthwhile punt.

[Özim]

I'd take Bony, not exactly the player I'd want, but beggars can't be choose and we're beggars, albeit rich ones. He's better than what we have, really would prefer someone more like Lacazette but clearly that's not going to happen as we won't pay the asking price.

Problem with him though is he's African and will disappear for the African Nations which is a bit of a pain, pretty embarassing that we're scraping the barrel now having had all summer to find players, sums the club up though.

[Power n Glory]

There's something wrong....I agree with you again, I also think he'd be a worthwhile punt.

:lol: It happens.

It’s better than nothing if the price is reasonable.

[Herbert_Chapman's_Zombie]

I'm not entirely convinced Lacazette is any better than Bony, Bony had a pretty impressive scoring record with Vitesse Arnheim in the Eredivise and let's not kid ourselves...despite PSG Ligue 1 is not significantly better than the Eredivise. Lacazette has the benefit of being three years younger and that's about it.

If i'm honest, i'd prefer a striker who it has been proven that with regular first team football can produce in the premier league.

[Özim]

I'm not entirely convinced Lacazette is any better than Bony, Bony had a pretty impressive scoring record with Vitesse Arnheim in the Eredivise and let's not kid ourselves...despite PSG Ligue 1 is not significantly better than the Eredivise. Lacazette has the benefit of being three years younger and that's about it.

If i'm honest, i'd prefer a striker who it has been proven that with regular first team football can produce in the premier league.

Fair enough, I disagree, Bony I see had one very good season for Vitesse but his previous seasons weren't amazing. Age is a factor, Lacazette has a good few years ahead of him, he's pacey, has proven he can score goals for a Lyon team who are no longer a top team as they use to be. Looking at Bony's career, he seems to have one good season followed by an average one and this repeats itself throughout his career, still he's worth a punt but he'd be a 30 million one, more than City paid for him despite having been a failure there, whereas Lacazette is a success a Lyon thus will come with confidence.

[Kano]

There's something wrong....I agree with you again, I also think he'd be a worthwhile punt.
Slow and static like Giroud, if we need something different, this guy couldn't offer it.

[Herbert_Chapman's_Zombie]

I don't agree I think he's more mobile and more versatile....he can hold up the ball and head well like Giroud but I think his finishing is better and is quicker.

[dostoy]

I would rather have Mario Gomez than Bony.

We are now after Man City rejects are we.

FFS.

[Power n Glory]

Fair enough, I disagree, Bony I see had one very good season for Vitesse but his previous seasons weren't amazing. Age is a factor, Lacazette has a good few years ahead of him, he's pacey, has proven he can score goals for a Lyon team who are no longer a top team as they use to be. Looking at Bony's career, he seems to have one good season followed by an average one and this repeats itself throughout his career, still he's worth a punt but he'd be a 30 million one, more than City paid for him despite having been a failure there, whereas Lacazette is a success a Lyon thus will come with confidence.

Both are risky but it just boils down to options really. I don't think Lyon will budge on price and we can at least say Bony has Prem experience.

[Power n Glory]

I don't agree I think he's more mobile and more versatile....he can hold up the ball and head well like Giroud but I think his finishing is better and is quicker.

Yeah, he's quicker than Giroud. Not just only over a 60 meter sprint but I mean in his reactions. If we're going for a strong player up front, they need to have that sharpness in their play to create some space for themselves. Giroud lacks it's Wenger can pull that stat where most of his goals come from his first touch.

[Kano]

We are now after Man City rejects are we.

Not really.

[Niall_Quinn]

Wenger does it again :bow:

Fans are so desperate they'll settle for players like Bony who have already failed at the top level.

[Özim]

Wenger does it again :bow:

Fans are so desperate they'll settle for players like Bony who have already failed at the top level.

Don't really have any choice, it seems to be these kind of players or nothing. We're not going to pay up for the players we should be getting let's face it.

[Kano]

Depends if you're stupid enough to be suckered in by every news 'report' online or not.

[Özim]

I don't think it does, who have we signed so far, Xhaka, who is relatively unknown and two kids, most of the players available have now moved or aren't moving which doesn't leave a lot.

You don't need to read the papers to see that we're doing nothing in the transfer market, there's only a few days until the start of the season and still nothing.

I agree Bony is most likely BS, but that's the level of player we're going to be signing if any.

[Power n Glory]

Wenger does it again :bow:

Fans are so desperate they'll settle for players like Bony who have already failed at the top level.

He was never going to bench Aguero and we all knew that when he agreed to move there. A complete failure? I wouldn't say that. Remember how Bergkamp and Henry arrived at this club from Italy? Not saying Bony is at that level but I wouldn't be so quick to right him off especially since he hardly started games there. If he were arriving straight from Holland and you heard he was their top goal scorer, you'd probably be a bit more receptive.

[Marc Overmars]

French press reporting we have had a £30m bid for Mahrez rejected.

[Gooner23]

Likely to be bullshit. If it were true we need to be looking at 40-50 in the current mental market.

Unless of course it's a low ball bid so the club can tell the fans they tried!

[Power n Glory]

Has to be bullshit. How could the French press know?

[Munchies]

French press reporting we have had a £30m bid for Mahrez rejected.

The guy who apparently broke it says we've now bid £35m and he wants to join us

[Munchies]

Riyad Mahrez's agent had a meeting with Leicester City's Director of Football John Rudkin today, according to The Guardian too

https://twitter.com/ed_aarons/status/763346928402829312

[Kano]

I don't think it does, who have we signed so far, Xhaka, who is relatively unknown and two kids, most of the players available have now moved or aren't moving which doesn't leave a lot.

You don't need to read the papers to see that we're doing nothing in the transfer market, there's only a few days until the start of the season and still nothing.

I agree Bony is most likely BS, but that's the level of player we're going to be signing if any.

As I've said many times, we all believe in what suits us best. Truth and fact doesn't really come into it on most occasions.

[Kano]

The guy who apparently broke it says we've now bid £35m and he wants to join us

£37m now!

No, wait, £43m...

But now he doesn't want to join us :(

[Bergkampwonderland10]

Could be something to this Mahrez rumour!!!
Fingers-crossed, he is pushing behind the scenes. Leicester City's owner looked pretty unprofessional with that tweet about him not being for sale.
He'd be a player that would fit our play very well. It would be a signing to get excited about ;)

[Munchies]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CpgE_elWEAAdr-c.jpg

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CpgG_jsXgAAfXR-.jpg

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CpgG_9-XEAAq9i_.jpg

We're saved!

No signings needed now!!

[The Emirates Gallactico]

If we sign Mahrez it means that Wenger is serious about using Alexis as the CF for the bulk of this season. If Alexis stays disciplined & doesn't go chasing after every ball, i.e. some good coaching (lol) he could be the best "internal solution" ever found by Wenger. He's got to the potential to have a Suarez style season for us with his aggression and goal scoring ability.

[Goonermerree]

Mustafi is not playing tonight for Valencia, Arsenal pursuing him!!!!

Stop me! Why do I put myself through this every Transfer window, we hardly ever by anyone we want. Que sera, sera. I'm not going to get excited about any transfer rumours anymore, just wait until it's announced on .com

[Niall_Quinn]

As I've said many times, we all believe in what suits us best. Truth and fact doesn't really come into it on most occasions.

This is a transfer rumour, speculation and reaction thread. Same time every year, all fans do it. Who should we buy, who are we going after, who have we actually bought (except for Arsenal fans who don't need to worry about that bit)? This isn't Wikipedia it's a discussion forum. The aim isn't to sit around waiting for stuff to happen and be confirmed and then post, "That just happened...", so that everyone else can post, "Confirmed, true, factual." Would be as boring as Wengerball if it was like that.

[The Emirates Gallactico]

Desperate or not I just can't see Wenger ever parting 30 million for a defender let alone the 40 million Valencia are actually demanding. I honestly think Wenger would prefer the abuse from the crowd on Sunday instead of compromising on his principles.

[Niall_Quinn]

If we sign Mahrez it means that Wenger is serious about using Alexis as the CF for the bulk of this season. If Alexis stays disciplined & doesn't go chasing after every ball, i.e. some good coaching (lol) he could be the best "internal solution" ever found by Wenger. He's got to the potential to have a Suarez style season for us with his aggression and goal scoring ability.

With Theo given one last chance to show he can work with Alexis and Mahrez up top with any from Santi, Ozil, Elneny, Ramsey, Xhaka behind. 4-3-3 with Bellerin and Monreal having the critical roles to make it work offensively and defensively. And plenty of options waiting for when the whole 11 get injured.

Dream world. We will play with 1 up top and that 1 will be Bif, sooner rather than later I would think.

[Niall_Quinn]

Mustafi is not playing tonight for Valencia, Arsenal pursuing him!!!!

Stop me! Why do I put myself through this every Transfer window, we hardly ever by anyone we want. Que sera, sera. I'm not going to get excited about any transfer rumours anymore, just wait until it's announced on .com

He's gone into hiding in case Valencia say yes.

[Özim]

Desperate or not I just can't see Wenger ever parting 30 million for a defender let alone the 40 million Valencia are actually demanding. I honestly think Wenger would prefer the abuse from the crowd on Sunday instead of compromising on his principles.

Water off a ducks' back, he neither cares about the abuse nor about fans, he gets his big paycheck at the end of the week so why should he?

If he cared he would have left a long time ago, the guy cares about number 1, his players and that's it.

[Niall_Quinn]

We're saved!

No signings needed now!!

Bif should be our Andy Carroll lump-it-up-and-try-to-rescue-it option. Nothing more. When we are down with 10 mins to go and nobody can confirm whether Theo is on the pitch or not, Bif should be on to play goal hanger so Xhaka and Ozil can hoof it 60 yards.

[Özim]

If we wanted Mahrez the deal would have been done and dusted a long time ago, it's almost the start of the season and nothing has happened, doubt it ever will.

Probably another BS rumour put out by our PR team and another sob story when this deal never happens.

[Niall_Quinn]

If we wanted Mahrez the deal would have been done and dusted a long time ago, it's almost the start of the season and nothing has happened, doubt it ever will.

Probably another BS rumour put out by our PR team and another sob story when this deal never happens.

As you well know, we have internal qualiteeee. It is doubtful if the player of the season could improve us.

[Herbert_Chapman's_Zombie]

Bif should be our Andy Carroll lump-it-up-and-try-to-rescue-it option. Nothing more. When we are down with 10 mins to go and nobody can confirm whether Theo is on the pitch or not, Bif should be on to play goal hanger so Xhaka and Ozil can hoof it 60 yards.

Pretty much, though i'd have preferred it if you'd compared him to Duncan Ferguson

[LDG]

Bif should be our Andy Carroll lump-it-up-and-try-to-rescue-it option. Nothing more. When we are down with 10 mins to go and nobody can confirm whether Theo is on the pitch or not, Bif should be on to play goal hanger so Xhaka and Ozil can hoof it 60 yards.

Don't be silly, if Bif was brought on, it would be at the expense of the very player that would be able to provide him service. Therefore, Ozil would not be on the pitch.

Gibbs may come on at the same time, at the expense of Monreal however. Don't forget, we're chasing the game. This makes sense.

[Xhaka Can’t]

The guy who apparently broke it says we've now bid £35m and he wants to join us

£35,000,001 should do it.

[Niall_Quinn]

Pretty much, though i'd have preferred it if you'd compared him to Duncan Ferguson

Ferguson paid no attention to his hair whatsoever. In fact I watched games where it looked like he hadn't even brushed it. There's no comparison.

[Goonermerree]

Arsenal have not made a £30m bid for Leicester City winger Riyad Mahrez, according to Sky sources.

And there you have it!

[Goonermerree]

The latest transfer news with Everton reportedly closing in on a £15m deal to sign Man City striker Wilfried Bony.

I never understood why cit bought bony in the first place, he was never ging to get much game time or stay there.

[Herbert_Chapman's_Zombie]

Ferguson paid no attention to his hair whatsoever. In fact I watched games where it looked like he hadn't even brushed it. There's no comparison.

He never seemed to have enough of it to make it worth brushing

[Marc Overmars]

I don't think Bony is a bad player tbf, I think he's quite agile for someone so stocky and his finishing is decent. He was really good at Swansea but at City he was always going to be Aguero's understudy. He seemed to score a bit though during Aguero's injury lay offs.

Not the top quality guy we want but a different kind of option to Giroud at least.

[Niall_Quinn]

The latest transfer news with Everton reportedly closing in on a £15m deal to sign Man City striker Wilfried Bony.

I never understood why cit bought bony in the first place, he was never ging to get much game time or stay there.

Like many, he's a big time charlie who values the money over the game. Lots of them decorating the benches in gypoland and chavland.

[mastermind84]

If we wanted Mahrez the deal would have been done and dusted a long time ago, it's almost the start of the season and nothing has happened, doubt it ever will.

Probably another BS rumour put out by our PR team and another sob story when this deal never happens.
id wager it was put out by Mahrez's team.

Maybe pursuing another contract or another club?

[Niall_Quinn]

Arsenal have not made a £30m bid for Leicester City winger Riyad Mahrez, according to Sky sources.

And there you have it!

Everyone bar Wenger realises that £30mill won't be enough. Does he do this because he actually wants the player, or because he wants the fans to think he wants the player? Same with Lacazette, a big bid might have shifted him. Same with Suarez before, something a little more ambitious than £1 might have worked. But, you know, if Wenger says the player of last season is only worth £30mill in this market then he is right and everyone else is wrong.

[Niall_Quinn]

id wager it was put out by Mahrez's team.

Maybe pursuing another contract or another club?

Quite possibly. It was reported he's secured £80k per week whereas Vardy has landed himself £100k. A little push for the extra £20k before the kick-off. It's not inconceivable. The only thing that's inconceivable is us bidding enough to shift him.

[mastermind84]

Also, this Bony transfer to Everton may start the ball rolling on some bigger transfers.

[LDG]

Also, this Bony transfer to Everton may start the ball rolling on some bigger transfers.

Lukaku to Chelsea you mean?

[Japan Shaking All Over]

Sky Sports saying we are in talks with Mustafi's agent.......can see this signing this guy by Friday lunch which gives him more that enough time to thoroughly familiarise himself with the way we defend.

[Munchies]

Guardian now saying Mahrez is staying after talks with the club

:rose:

[Kano]

:lol:

[Munchies]

Arsenal have not bid for Riyad Mahrez - Sky Sports News

http://www.skysports.com/football/news/11670/10530836/arsenal-have-not-made-a-bid-for-leicester-winger-riyad-mahrez-say-sky-sources

[mastermind84]

Lukaku to Chelsea you mean?

Or Bayern


We are signing someone this week
https://twitter.com/afcarsenalhorse/status/763421590147170304

[Munchies]

Or Bayern


We are signing someone this week
https://twitter.com/afcarsenalhorse/status/763421590147170304


That ArsenalHorse fella is probably the most reliable source. Mustafi I imagine

[Gooner23]

Is he not just stating the obvious? We know the club are after a CB.

[Munchies]

Mustafi liking Xhaka's picture on instagram

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CphKas2WIAA37oX.jpg

[Blink 1nce Quince 2wice]

If we sign Mahrez it means that Wenger is serious about using Alexis as the CF for the bulk of this season. If Alexis stays disciplined & doesn't go chasing after every ball, i.e. some good coaching (lol) he could be the best "internal solution" ever found by Wenger. He's got to the potential to have a Suarez style season for us with his aggression and goal scoring ability.

It is possible he isn't fully convinced by Campbell, The Ox, Theo or Gnabry and thinks Iwobi is too young to play every game......

[Niall_Quinn]

Guardian now saying Mahrez is staying after talks with the club

:rose:

Take a bow son. Nicely played.

[Niall_Quinn]

Mustafi liking Xhaka's picture on instagram

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CphKas2WIAA37oX.jpg

I really don't care if he's gay. As long as he signs.

[Kano]

That ArsenalHorse fella is probably the most reliable source. Mustafi I imagine

Nah Jonny Evans

[AFC Leveller]

Mustafi liking Xhaka's picture on instagram

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CphKas2WIAA37oX.jpg
Both Albanian and decent mates.

[AFC Leveller]

According to the Times, we have tried all summer and failed to agree new contracts with Ozil and Sanchez.

[Özim]

It is possible he isn't fully convinced by Campbell, The Ox, Theo or Gnabry and thinks Iwobi is too young to play every game......

Campbell has played very well when he's had a chance and yet LeClown isn't convinced he should get a chance, laughable really, especially considering certain players who have been dogsh*te for years have got chance after chance, a perfect example of favouritism if ever you wanted to see one.

[Blink 1nce Quince 2wice]

Or just poor judgement.

Campbell has been unlucky though his numbers aren't great I hear.....

[Özim]

According to the Times, we have tried all summer and failed to agree new contracts with Ozil and Sanchez.

No surprise really, they'd be fools to sign new contracts with what's going on, they probably want to win stuff in their careers and not waste their time at a club who think top 4 is winning.

This was always going to be an issue, it's embarassing that the club even thought they could get these quality players signed up with no decent signings.

[Özim]

Or just poor judgement.

Campbell has been unlucky though his numbers aren't great I hear.....

There's plenty of that too and incompetence.

Campbell, is direct, likes to have a shot and works hard, can't fault him for effort unless you're Monsieur Wenger, in which case you can because you don't believe in logic and are obsessed with those stats as you say.

[Niall_Quinn]

According to the Times, we have tried all summer and failed to agree new contracts with Ozil and Sanchez.

Of course we haven't agreed contracts. They aren't stupid. I think the only people who want to see some ambition at the club more than the fans is the players. When you put a monitor on our ambition it's a flatline. Who is going to commit to that?

[Niall_Quinn]

No surprise really, they'd be fools to sign new contracts with what's going on, they probably want to win stuff in their careers and not waste their time at a club who think top 4 is winning.

This was always going to be an issue, it's embarassing that the club even thought they could get these quality players signed up with no decent signings.

It never had to be an issue. L'Cheapskate signs Ozil in a huge flourish, then follows up with Alexis. Then... does fuck all. Only a complete moron would do that. The repercussions of encouraging everyone to think the brakes are finally off and the making a big public exhibition of wheel-clamping the club were always going to be hugely negative. There will be a lot of fallout from our decision not to compete.

[alexander]

Is there any other club that are linked with so many, and have so many false starts in the transfer market as Arsenal?!:doh:

If I was a manager at another club, and I wanted my top player to stay, I would leak a story that Arsenal are interested. Its a sure sign that the player will stay/pen a new contract :)

[Niall_Quinn]

Is there any other club that are linked with so many, and have so many false starts in the transfer market as Arsenal?!:doh:

If I was a manager at another club, and I wanted my top player to stay, I would leak a story that Arsenal are interested. Its a sure sign that the player will stay/pen a new contract :)

Harry Redknapp out his car window is about the only thing that comes close.

[Shaqiri Is Boss]

So it seems like Wolves are on the verge of signing Talisca from Benfica for £21.5m.

[mastermind84]

Is he not just stating the obvious? We know the club are after a CB.
the people who run that account work in the club, i think.

others are speculating, but they tend to know.


They also dont tweet that often.

[Keith]

Ashley Williams - Gone to Everton - Surely, he could've come in and done a job? Wouldn't of hurt the youngsters and provided some experience and cover for the other 3. Madness.

[Goonermerree]

'The latest news and gossip as Arsenal playmaker Mesut Ozil reportedly sets his sights on a return to Real.'

On Sky Transfer news now. Would Raal have him back?

[Kano]

Damn those sauces.

[Munchies]

This Mahrez stuff keeps rolling

Breaking | Arsenal have made a €41m offer for Leicester City's Riyad Mahrez, according to tomorrow's L'Équipe.

Riyad Mahrez has now decided that he is willing to clash with Leicester in order to get a move to Arsenal, according to tomorrow's L'Équipe.

@GFFN
Important to note that this is the most credible link of Mahrez to Arsenal from any report anywhere this window in our view so far.

[Bergkampwonderland10]

Leicester bidding for gabigol...maybe we should be too! :ninja::shrug:

[selassie]

No surprise really, they'd be fools to sign new contracts with what's going on, they probably want to win stuff in their careers and not waste their time at a club who think top 4 is winning.

This was always going to be an issue, it's embarassing that the club even thought they could get these quality players signed up with no decent signings.

They will be gone by next summer IMO, the writing is on the wall.

[selassie]

This Mahrez stuff keeps rolling

Breaking | Arsenal have made a €41m offer for Leicester City's Riyad Mahrez, according to tomorrow's L'Équipe.

Riyad Mahrez has now decided that he is willing to clash with Leicester in order to get a move to Arsenal, according to tomorrow's L'Équipe.

@GFFN
Important to note that this is the most credible link of Mahrez to Arsenal from any report anywhere this window in our view so far.

If we are serious about him then we need to put in a proper bid, 35mill in the current market for Mahrez is laughable.

[AFC Leveller]

IMO Mahrez, Mustafi and Lacazette would represent a good window.

However, i wouldnt be surprised if we ended up with just Evans.

[Marc Overmars]

I highly doubt Mahrez will be allowed to leave now the season is starting. If we wanted him we should have gone in hard around the time Kante left.

[Power n Glory]

If we are serious about him then we need to put in a proper bid, 35mill in the current market for Mahrez is laughable.

I think the world has gone mad. He was worth £35k last year and now £35m isn't enough for him?

We probably need to stop referring to this as a market. Leicester don't want to sell and only a ridiculous amount of money will tempt them to consider it. We need to move on. He's agreed to stay for another season as well. Heck, if we were to pay that much for Mahrez........football has gone mental.

[bignev]

According to the Times, we have tried all summer and failed to agree new contracts with Ozil and Sanchez.

Clearly media rubbish. They've both been playing in football tournaments and then on holiday. The longest we could have been trying is the last week or so,

Don't believe everything you read.:sulk:

[Power n Glory]

Clearly media rubbish. They've both been playing in football tournaments and then on holiday. The longest we could have been trying is the last week or so,

Don't believe everything you read.:sulk:

They have agents. It takes a phone call or email.

[Munchies]

The Times and other papers saying that Mustafi will cost us £20m with a few million on top in addons

Great deal in this market

They're all saying it's more or less done too


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nF6b6Bxo2Gg

[bignev]

They have agents. It takes a phone call or email.

Sure believe that if you want. My thoughts definitely aren't more logical :doh:

We could discuss it in person in a few weeks or we could do it right now via phone or e-mail while you're either playing a major football tournament or on holiday.

It certainly isn't likely that this is creative media reporting.

Not to mention the club surely must be concentrating on transfers right now (haha).

[Power n Glory]

Sure believe that if you want. My thoughts definitely aren't more logical :doh:

We could discuss it in person in a few weeks or we could do it right now via phone or e-mail while you're either playing a major football tournament or on holiday.

It certainly isn't likely that this is creative media reporting.

Not to mention the club surely must be concentrating on transfers right now (haha).

Yes, silly me thinking footballers don't have agents doing most of the leg work and we live in a world without email and telephones. :doh:

Oh yes and it must be impossible for us to extend the contracts of our most important players whilst looking for transfers. Yes, that's logical.

[Munchies]

Mahrez just followed Sanogo on twitter

https://twitter.com/Mahrez22/following


:haha:

It's on! :getcoat:


L'Equipe saying we've bid more than £40m

[Munchies]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CpkQbDPWcAAXhRO.jpg

[Gooner23]

Sanogo to Leicester ? :pray:

[bignev]

Yes, silly me thinking footballers don't have agents doing most of the leg work and we live in a world without email and telephones. :doh:

Oh yes and it must be impossible for us to extend the contracts of our most important players whilst looking for transfers. Yes, that's logical.

Look I get it, you want to be negative about every single thing at the club. But sometimes it's just media bullshit and nothing more.

[Power n Glory]

Look I get it, you want to be negative about every single thing at the club. But sometimes it's just media bullshit and you don't need to fall for it everytime.

I don't think you do. It could very well be media speculation but you're reasoning for why it's media bullshit is something I don't agree with. We managed to sign Sanchez during the World Cup. I don't think the players have to physically be around for a few points to be agreed over email or a phone call. They have agents.

Also, how long left have Sanchez and Ozil got left on their contracts? Do you not think it's the clubs top priority to get this sorted? I'd like to think discussions started way before now. Yes, the papers could be recycling old news and stirring the pot but tournaments and holidays shouldn't stop the agents from talking.

[Özim]

Look I get it, you want to be negative about every single thing at the club. But sometimes it's just media bullshit and nothing more.

You need to be more realistic, agents pretty much handle most of a players business now days, the player doesn't even need to be there, we've had all summer to sort out deals (yes summer is the best time to sort out contracts) that's a full 2 1/2 months so far and haven't managed it.

In addition why would players like Ozil and Sanchez, world class players who could go to almost any club want to commit their futures to a club with so little ambition, there's barely been a decent signing in sight (yes there's Xhaka but he's not going to convince anyone let's be honest) whilst our rivals are signing big stars and moving forward.

You can't bury your head and pretend that's we haven't signed them up because of the International tournaments, if players are keen to sign up it's easy enough to tie up, clearly they're not.

[Özim]

I don't think you do. It could very well be media speculation but you're reasoning for why it's media bullshit is something I don't agree with. We managed to sign Sanchez during the World Cup. I don't think the players have to physically be around for a few points to be agreed over email or a phone call. They have agents.

Also, how long left have Sanchez and Ozil got left on their contracts? Do you not think it's the clubs top priority to get this sorted? I'd like to think discussions started way before now. Yes, the papers could be recycling old news and stirring the pot but tournaments and holidays shouldn't stop the agents from talking.

Fact is if they wanted to sign they would have by now, their contracts won't have that long left since they've been here a while anyway, it's clear to me they want to see what happens with transfers before committing, to me that's not good news because quite frankly we don't seem to have much on the horizon.

[bignev]

In addition why would players like Ozil and Sanchez, world class players who could go to almost any club want to commit their futures to a club with so little ambition,


I agree with this statement but that wasn't my point.

My point was that the media are reporting we've been trying to get them to sign extensions all summer. I was pointing out that both players have been involved in other activities which they probably want to concentrate on. Both players take international football seriously.

You also have to take into account that Arsenal don't really like to leak much info about this stuff to the press which leads to questions about where this info has come from (hint it's media speculation and nothing more).

Essentially Arsenal are in such a mess and fans are so desperate for news that the media can print whatever they like and fans will gobble it up. You only have to look at the Mahrez & Icardi rumours to realise that. Today they've announced we're going to try and sign Lewandowski or Griezzman for 60m :rolleyes::rolleyes: Again clearly made up. You can bet that millions of people have been reading the clickbait for those rumours though. Then once one place "reports" it, another picks it up and prints it and cycle continues. It then becomes fact.

Anyway we'll agree to disagree on this. Looks like Mustafi is going to sign for us at least. Which backs up my point above, by the way. The Johnny Evans story was another spurious rumour that desperate fans fell for. People are so disillusioned that they'll believe crap like this. It all just feeds into each other.

Think Mustafi will be a good signing for us in the long run. A reason to be cheerful anyway.

[Munchies]

@AFCArsenalHorse
Arsenal will complete a signing for 'x' player on Monday with a full medical.
https://twitter.com/AFCArsenalHorse/status/763694124767862784

Probably Mustafi.

http://d3fsqtc6sy2z27.cloudfront.net/uploads/ed57b344b62d04200a18f18b0ab3389d_large

get in!

[bignev]

@AFCArsenalHorse
Arsenal will complete a signing for 'x' player on Monday with a full medical.
https://twitter.com/AFCArsenalHorse/status/763694124767862784

Probably Mustafi.

http://d3fsqtc6sy2z27.cloudfront.net/uploads/ed57b344b62d04200a18f18b0ab3389d_large

get in!

This is brilliant :)

[KSE Comedy Club]

Why wait till Monday?

Just get it done ffs!

[LDG]

Why wait till Monday?

Just get it done ffs!

Soothes the pain after getting butt-fucked by Liverpool probably.

[Power n Glory]

Soothes the pain after getting butt-fucked by Liverpool probably.

Speaking from experience. :lol: We know the drill.

[The Emirates Gallactico]

Probably because it only seems that we initiated contact with Valencia after finding out about Gabriel's injury. I've also read reports that Valencia are sensibly trying to secure a loan deal for Mangala (lol) to cover for the loss of Mustafi which may also explain the hold up. At any rate, even if he managed to sign today or even yesterday he would never have been ready to play against Liverpool so there's no immediate rush anyway.

Anyway looks like the player not surprisingly wants to come. Ozil probably has had a word tbh.

http://www.skysports.com/football/news/11670/10531702/valencias-shkodran-mustafi-agrees-to-join-arsenal-but-no-fee-agreed


Ozil X Mustafi ........... the new Ozil x Flamini. :bow:

[Kano]

Baston has gone to Swansea for £15m from Atletico.

Will be interesting to see how he develops, only 23 but decent stats from the past two seasons on loan at two teams at the bottom end and lower division of La Liga.

[Goonermerree]

Hmm, not sure Mustafi will fit int our squad. I just watched him on YouTube and he seems to know what he's doing, and, he attacks crosses in the box with his head and scores and everything.:cool:;)

[KSE Comedy Club]

Hmm, not sure Mustafi will fit int our squad. I just watched him on YouTube and he seems to know what he's doing, and, he attacks crosses in the box with his head and scores and everything.:cool:;)
I agree

massive conflict of interests there.

[Niall_Quinn]

Hmm, not sure Mustafi will fit int our squad. I just watched him on YouTube and he seems to know what he's doing, and, he attacks crosses in the box with his head and scores and everything.:cool:;)

Give him a season, he'll get the hang of how we do things.

A massively underwhelming but necessary signing. Merts is one of the biggest liabilities in the league, Gabriel spectacularly failed to take his chance, Chambers is Wenger's DM pet project and Holding may or may not be decent but right now he's nowhere. That leaves Kos, the only genuine quality we have in the position. In fact our current options are so awful it is forcing Wenger to spend money. That's how bad things are. Wenger spending money. It's astonishing.

[Power n Glory]

Merts needs to get some fan appreciation around here. :lol: Merts is responsible for Koscielny's good form. Our defence has been the best it has been in years since Merts came along.

[Özim]

No sign of the striker we've needed for years :tumbleweed:

[Keith]

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-3734890/James-Chester-set-9m-Aston-Villa-West-Brom-accept-bid-Wales-international-defender.html wonder if we're getting Evans...

[Kano]

Hope so.

[Blink 1nce Quince 2wice]

Give him a season, he'll get the hang of how we do things.

A massively underwhelming but necessary signing. Merts is one of the biggest liabilities in the league, Gabriel spectacularly failed to take his chance, Chambers is Wenger's DM pet project and Holding may or may not be decent but right now he's nowhere. That leaves Kos, the only genuine quality we have in the position. In fact our current options are so awful it is forcing Wenger to spend money. That's how bad things are. Wenger spending money. It's astonishing.
That is precisely how I feel.

I'm at the stage that I will feel underwhelmed by anything short of a world class striker which means I may as well go into stasis mode, such is my accumulatively exasperation at the failure to acquire a truly world class forward since RvP.

[Bergkampwonderland10]

RvP was only world class in his final season for us, and the season he went to Man Utd. We acquired his potential. I was at the game where he was unveiled and there was a genuine buzz but he was 21 years old. And yet fans moan these days when we sign 21 year olds. Can't really win.

[Niall_Quinn]

RvP was only world class in his final season for us, and the season he went to Man Utd. We acquired his potential. I was at the game where he was unveiled and there was a genuine buzz but he was 21 years old. And yet fans moan these days when we sign 21 year olds. Can't really win.

A lot of 21 year olds have gone under the bridge since RvC arrived. And some of them have been called Sanogo. It's difficult to maintain credibility on that basis.

[Marc Overmars]

RvP was only world class in his final season for us, and the season he went to Man Utd. We acquired his potential. I was at the game where he was unveiled and there was a genuine buzz but he was 21 years old. And yet fans moan these days when we sign 21 year olds. Can't really win.

RVC was world class for a number of years IMO, even during his injury plagued seasons he managed to deliver when fit enough to play. He had everything, just a shame his fitness limited the impact he could have had in the end. I wouldn't swap a peak RVC for any striker in the world right now. Possibly Aguero but that's it.

[bignev]

RVC was world class for a number of years IMO, even during his injury plagued seasons he managed to deliver when fit enough to play. He had everything, just a shame his fitness limited the impact he could have had in the end. I wouldn't swap a peak RVC for any striker in the world right now. Possibly Aguero but that's it.

I would consider Bitey McBiteFace

[Goonermerree]

I would consider Bitey McBiteFace


Gnasher

[Marc Overmars]

I would consider Bitey McBiteFace

Oh yeah, him too.

[Özim]

About Wenger and transfers


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ozFJK94Wh0s

[Power n Glory]

RvP was only world class in his final season for us, and the season he went to Man Utd. We acquired his potential. I was at the game where he was unveiled and there was a genuine buzz but he was 21 years old. And yet fans moan these days when we sign 21 year olds. Can't really win.

How many 21 year old have arrived to a negative response recently? Which ones?

[KSE Comedy Club]

Wenger now saying that the John stones transfer to citeh has inflated the prices for CB's.

Jesus wept....

[Niall_Quinn]

Wenger now saying that the John stones transfer to citeh has inflated the prices for CB's.

Jesus wept....

It's his job to worry about every other club's transfer business while neglecting ours.

[Blink 1nce Quince 2wice]

If we signed Mustafi, Mahrez, Holding and Xhaka would we say the window has been a success?

[Goonermerree]

If we signed Mustafi, Mahrez, Holding and Xhaka would we say the window has been a success?

Not as good as it could have been, but it would be a damn sight less bleak than it looks at the moment.

[Marc Overmars]

The hope would be that Mahrez could compensate for the lack of a world class striker, but given that it would then be 4 years since we signed a striker for the first team, I'd stop short of saying it was a success. We all know what the priority is.

[Herbert_Chapman's_Zombie]

If we signed Mustafi, Mahrez, Holding and Xhaka would we say the window has been a success?

We aren't signing Mustafi or Mahrez

[Kano]

Evans :pray:

[Goonermerree]

We aren't signing Mustafi or Mahrez

No, I don't think we are.

[fakeyank]

I think this transfer window will be a success if we dont re-sign Kallstrom, Bischoff or Silvestre.

[Niall_Quinn]

The hope would be that Mahrez could compensate for the lack of a world class striker, but given that it would then be 4 years since we signed a striker for the first team, I'd stop short of saying it was a success. We all know what the priority is.

Yes we do. Wenger leaving.

[Blink 1nce Quince 2wice]

We aren't signing Mustafi or Mahrez

That's the answer to a different question.

What do you think about the scousers signing your boy mane?

[LDG]

Evans :pray:

Roy Evans?

He had a heart attack didn't he?