I am not sure that any transfer action completed by Arsene Wenger before the current transfer window slams shut would convince the Arsenal fans that this had been a good summer for the Gunners, especially if we see both Alexis Sanchez and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain complete their much taled about moves to Premier League rival clubs.
However, the signing of the highly rated Dutch international centre back Virgil Van Dijk from Southampton would certainly put a rosier tint on the transfer dealings of Arsene Wenger, and the Daily Express is reporting that our manager is trying to beat both Liverpool and Chelsea to his signature.
While that may seem unlikely, we do apparently have a chance because the boss is offering the Saints their former player Theo Walcott as part of the deal and apparently they do want him. If Walcott is to be our secret weapon in this deal, though, it is vital that Arsenal replace him because he has often been our secret weapon on the pitch and a player we can barely afford to lose.
A lot of Arsenal fans may not be too bothered if Theo leaves but we should remember what an impact he can have and not just against the lesser clubs as many seem to think. He was not used all that heavily by Wenger last season but still chipped in with 19 goals.
So if Arsenal use him to get Van Dijk I think Wenger must sign a replacement. Riyad Mahrez perhaps?
Bob.