With Cesc Fa
bregas already having left, Samir Nasri moving closer and closer to finalising his move to Manchester City, and just one point collected from Arsenal’s opening two Premier League games, Arsene Wenger is under huge pressure to spend big and improve his squad.
The latest name to be linked with a move to the Emirates is Swiss midfielder Xherdan Shaqiri. The 19-year old currently plays for FC Basel and his growing reputation in football has seen him become the subject of much interest this summer.
Able to play on either wing, Shaqiri would offer Wenger some much needed versatility in what has become an under-strength midfield. He also posses a great left foot, highlighted when he scored his first international goal for Switzerland, against England in the European Championship Qualifiers.
His standout performances in this summer’s European Under-21 Championships have also done no harm to the youngster, who is not only seen as the future of Swiss football, but as one of the best talents Europe has to offer.
Whilst his abilities have not been tested in a more demanding division than the Swiss Super League, 4-4-2.com are reporting that Arsenal are ready to offer £8M to secure the winger’s signature.
With many Arsenal fans dubious to say the least about Wenger’s continued transfer policy of bringing in younger players, despite the departure of several senior players in recent times, this may not be the best deal to placate them.
However, unlike Alex Chamberlain this season, and Theo Walcott back in 2006, Shaqiri, should he make the move, would be ready for the rigours of first-team football immediately, and will likely become an integral part of the Gunners squad.
