So, it’s that time of the year where we are linked with numerous players, something that will only increase as the summer progresses. I thought I would write a daily transfer review, talking about what the rumours are saying and giving my opinions on them. Many media outlets have suggested we are readying a bid for Ryan Fraser, having been encouraged by Man United pulling out of the race. Bournemouth were perhaps hoping to create a bidding war based on the midfielder having only 12 months left on his contract. Judged on his season, the Cherries could have demanded a bigger figure.
With or without Champions League Football we know our budget is going to be limited in terms of turning us into title contenders, so these are the type of deals we must be looking at, taking a gamble on a a talent and hoping mentally they can handle the step up. I like the idea of recruiting some British talent because with Welbeck following Ramsey out of the exit door, we are suddenly lacking home-grown players who understand what a privilege it is to be a gunner.
Our recruitment team got praised 12 months ago for being more decisive so it remains to be seen if they let this turn into a saga. We have a reputation of haggling over every last penny and may not want to pay over the odds for a man they could get for nothing in a year. 30 million can’t get you a lot in 2019 so you wouldn’t blame Eddie Howe for trying to push up the asking price. At that point it could be who blinks first with maybe the Scot having to make it clear he wants the move to happen. The Cherries have often been compared to us style wise so we know we be getting a midfielder who shares our ethos. We need goals from midfield and he would be better in the final third then an Iwobi.
Gooners, what’s your thoughts on Ryan Fraser?
Dan Smith