Arsenal secured their latest signing in the transfer window yesterday, in the form of English centre back Rob Holding. Holding becomes the Gunners’ latest addition to the side and whilst many feared it would be our last addition, according to Arsenal.com, Arsenal do remain actively involved in the transfer market.
It therefore weighs it up nicely to report that EuroSport broke the news this morning, that Leicester’s Riyad Mahrez, has supposedly agreed terms with the Arsenal, after his agent met with Gunners officials earlier this week. EuroSport claim that a €50 million transfer fee has been agreed, which roughly converts to £41 million. The price makes me a little skeptical based upon the fact that Wenger seems unwilling to pay such large quantities elsewhere, even on world class talents. However due to the fact that Mahrez’s agent was watching the Gunners in action last night in Lens, perhaps there is some truth behind the developments, even if the price tag isn’t right.
Mahrez would be a fantastic addition that is much needed for Arsenal. There is no doubt that Arsenal have plenty of midfielders on the books, however the only real top quality winger we have is Alexis Sanchez. After Alexis, the quality of player dramatically drops to Walcott, Chamberlain, Campbell, Iwobi and Gnabry, all of who aren’t quite at the standard that Arsenal fans would hope. Mahrez would therefore be a great addition and at 25, he would have plenty of time to leave a legacy with the Gunners.
As previously said, I am slightly concerned about the transfer fee, based on Wenger’s previous history, as well as the fact he has only had that one good standout season, much like Vardy. However the difference between vardy and Mahrez is that the latter has many more years left at the top level of competitive football.
Don’t get too carried away just yet, take it all with a pinch of salt because all too often we end up being left in a state of disappointment when it comes to Arsenal transfer rumours.
By AH