Arsenal’s disastrous start to the season against Aston Villa seemed almost inevitable. The team, already down to the bare bones, due to a combination of a summer clear out, a lack of arrivals and injuries, was, despite a decent start, outplayed by Paul Lambert’s young side.
The performance highlighted many areas that even the most optimistic of fans would agree need improvement. Most significantly perhaps was the shocking goalkeeping and defending seen throughout, especially with Carl Jenkinson ten yards inside the Aston Villa half as our last man for the last goal.
Aside from the defensive shortcomings, the game confirmed that a central midfielder should be the number one priority this summer. Aaron Ramsey joined Mikel Arteta on the sidelines, leaving Jack Wilshere and Emmanuel Frimpong as the only possibilities in defensive midfield.
Pogba
On Monday several reports have suggested that Arsene Wenger is attempting to address the midfield situation, after concentrating on strikers so far this summer. Whilst Wenger remains an admirer of Lars Bender, it has been reported that Arsene has rekindled his interest in Paul Pogba.
Pogba is exactly the player Arsenal need. Tall, athletic, young, powerful and technically sound; a new Patrick Vieira. Despite starting only sporadically for Juventus since his move from Manchester United last year, the French international remains very much part of Antonio Conte’s plans, with Paulo Bandini suggesting it would take a lot more than the supposed £20m to get Pogba.
Cabaye
Arsenal’s interest in Pogba is yet to materialise into a bid, though there has been a concrete bid for another French international midfielder. The highly-rated 27 year-old Yohan Cabaye has attracted much interest across Europe, notably from PSG and Man Utd. Today however he was the subject of a derisory £10 million bid from Arsenal.
The bid was swiftly rejected by Newcastle, and it seems the bid would have to be doubled if Arsenal are to get there man. Cabaye nevertheless merits the attention and Arsenal should persist in their pursuit of the playmaker.
Though by trade a defensive midfielder, Cabaye possesses great vision and technical ability, and a powerful long range shot. He would bring Premier League experience and a much needed injection of quality, whilst alleviating the pressure on Arteta. At 27, he is also entering his prime.
With Man Utd, Liverpool, Tottenham and Chelsea starting strongly, and all declaring they are not yet finished in the transfer window, it is essential that Arsenal recruit in the next few days, and Pogba and Cabaye would both be welcome additions.
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