During a recent interview with L’Equipe TV, Arsenal striker Marouane Chamakh branded Arsene Wenger’s inability to find replacements for want-away duo Cesc Fabregas and Samir Nasrias ‘a bit embarrassing’.
The Moroccan international was also asked if he thought Lyon’s playmaker Yoann Gourcuff could be the solution for Arsenal, he answered:
‘If I could recommend a player to him (Wenger) it’d be Yoann, yes.’
‘But it’s up to the boss to decide if he wants him or not.’
Chamakh formed a formidable partnership with the Frenchman during their time at Bordeaux, helping the club achieve a French league and cup double in 2009.
Whilst Chamakh joined Arsenal last summer on a free, Gourcuff moved to Lyon in a deal worth approximately £20 million.
However, the 25-year-old has struggled to find his feet at his new club and has recently undergone ankle surgery, which will reportedly keep him out of action until September at the earliest.
Though this may not appeal to Wenger currently, the Frenchman remains a keen admirer of the Gourcuff and could be tempted to launch a bid for France international in January, providing his fitness is healthy.
Although Gourcuff would be an ideal replacement for Barca-bound Fabregas, I don’t believe we can take a chance on a player whose health and fitness is currently poor.
Is a possible January move for Gourcuff on the cards? Yes.
Do we need an immediate replacement for Cesc? I don’t actually know. While I think Ramsey can slot into the role perfectly, his lack of Premier League experience does worry me.
If we want to replace Cesc before the summer window closes (in 20 days) then Juan Mata is the obvious option. However, If Wenger believes we don’t need a replacement right away then a possible winter move for Gourcuff looks a good idea.
What do you guys think – would Gourcuff be an ideal replacement for Fabregas?
Article courtesy of Gunnersphere.com
