It’s got to that stage again. We all know it’s pretty much done. Arsenal know it’s pretty much done. But they’d die before they admit that Nuri Sahin’s coming on loan before every I is dotted and contract is signed. It happened with Cazorla, but at least there was a justification for that, Malaga’s financial problems.

Then again I suspect Uncle Jose is trying to stop him going to Arsenal because he hates Arsene. But if Sahin makes him angry enough he might just flog him to us permanently. Not getting my hopes up though.

He’s apparently had his last training session at Madrid, and should be flying in tomorrow, but the way Arsenal operate he probably won’t be announced until Friday or Saturday. Too late for Stoke by any rate.

Will Jesus Save?

Arsenal were linked with a move for Sevilla winger Jesus Navas this morning, by Spanish paper AS. He was apparently recommended to Arsenal by Santi Cazorla, which suggests Wenger does that Football Manager thing where while you’re talking to a player you can ask him to recommend a signing.

But there’s very little in the story. Sevilla were quick to deny it, pointing to his contract expiring in 2015, plus he suffers from homesickness to the extent that he can only leave Spain for internationals or club tours for short periods of time. He’s had therapy but it’s unclear whether he could manage to live in a foreign country for any length of time. That and Arsenal have enough wingers as is.

Another day, another DM

Today, that DM is Newcastle’s Cheick Tiote. Without a doubt he’s a good player, but it really does seem that Arsenal aren’t interested in a player like him, preferring a disciplined midfielder with players that know when to go forward and track back. I’m inclined to agree with this to be honest, the desire for a “true DM” seems somewhat mythical and not really required in today’s game.

Also he’d cost a fair wack, though Newcastle have bought Veron Anita from Ajax, possibly as a replacement, as they’re very similar players. We’ll see. Unlikely though.

Andre didn’t fight the law

Despite yesterday’s papers making incredible claims about Andre Santos’s speeding offence, it seems what actually transpired wasn’t nearly as bad as it was made out.

He released a statement yesterday, explaining that it actually happened last week. He didn’t as much ignore police as not see them, and stopped as soon as he did. Naturally, he was speeding because he was late for training, the little tyke. He’s not really facing jail, but is required to appear at court with his drivers license and various papers. Probably a fine and ban for cuddly Andre. Mmm..

Anyway, that’s all for now.

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