It is reported that our transfer budget this summer will be between 50-70 million. Why/how we have so little to spend is a debate for another day and one we will probably revisit throughout the next few months. Most Gooners have long realised our current owner does not have the ambition to give the cash it would take to make us championship contenders. That means our recruitment team have to think outside the box and find value elsewhere. Evaluating who is out of contract may not be fans first choice but considering we are run by Stan Kroenke we don’t have much choice. The club’s policy seems happier to have a large wage bill then pay inflated fees so throwing thousands at a free agent is more realistic then paying millions to a club.
Here are a few names whose deals are about to expire who might be worth us thinking about?
Giroud – Chelsea
While many say you should never go back, this makes more sense when you look closer. Along with Ramsey and Cech, Welbeck was given a plaque on our last game at the Emirates, thanking him for his contribution. So, we will be looking for someone to be back up for Auba and Lacca, and with a limited budget this is an area where a freebie might make sense. We know more than anyone that Giroud can be an effective plan B and doesn’t mind spending time on the bench. The reason he went to the Bridge was his family wanting to stay in London so this deal would make sense.
Godin – Atletico Madrid
I don’t care how old he is, you cannot convince me he would not improve our defence. Not only would you acquire one the best defenders of his generation but someone who would immediately be a leader. We probably have a policy not to pay so much to someone over the age of 30 but for what he can bring to us in the short term it would be worth it.
Kompany – Man City
Okay first thing is that I can’t see City not offering their captain a new deal, if there is one man their owner might show sentiment towards it would be the Belgian. The second, the moment it became clear he was willing to leave, a who’s who of clubs would be ringing his agent. Again, it comes down to ambition. We have the money to entice a man who would bring leadership qualities to our dressing room, but would we pay over the odds for someone in his thirties.
Luis – Atletico Madrid
A left back might not be our priority but I’m tired of us having to play 5 at the back just to accommodate Kolasinac. I’m sorry if you’re a full back who can’t play in a back 4 that tells me you are not good enough for our level. Coached by Simeone, Luis knows how to defend and has strong game management. We can’t ignore when these types of players are out of contract.
Juan Mata – Manchester United
The irony being that we so nearly signed him when he first came to England, he visited the Emirates before choosing Chelsea. He wouldn’t replace Ramsey in terms of being box to box but in terms of someone who could come in keep the ball and bring experience. As a squad player, he’s worth it
Sturridge – Liverpool
I have argued this before.
This would be a natural replacement for Welbeck just someone who can finish better. Yes, he’s equally injury prone but remember we have to save money where we can.
Dan Smith