Quote Originally Posted by Blink 1nce Quince 2wice View Post
That's precisely why I think we should have tried harder to keep Sagna. Replacing a player like that is very difficult and I think Aurier represented at least the pretence of getting to his level one day. Whilst I think it's possible DeDouchey will improve, I don't think he will get to a great level beyond where he is or even that of Sagna's. Our target should have been somebody who is or had the potential to be at his level one day.

I think we will be more than happy to sign the reserve keeper right at the deadline because he will be no great name or force in football. If Vermaelen leaves that will actually force our hand in terms of buying a CB so I'm sure the club will try hard not to let him go, but they will have their price.
To be fair to the club and Wenger, by all reports we went to unprecedented lengths to try and retain Sagna and that was our first option. Offered substantial wages, a long deal (for a player at his age) and a nice signing fee apparently. It can't really be helped if City were prepared to continue to flout FFP and exploit their financial muscle to offer ridiculous wages. And that Sagna showing a brazen lack of ambition decided to join a club where he's going to predominately sit on the bench. Anyway, Wenger really must have identified something up with Aurier or that he really rates Bellerin, because as much as I like Jenks, I don't think he'll ever be first choice.