Łukasz Fabiański signs for the Swans

Arsenal FA Cup Hero Łukasz Fabiański has signed a deal with Swansea FC. The Polish International is set to join the Swans as of next Month.

The question as to whether or not Fabiański will extend his contract for the Gunners as finally been answered. The work rate and talent of Vito Mannone and fellow Countryman Wojciech Szczęsny prevented Fabiański from cementing the Number 1 spot.

Having played a crucial role in Arsenal FA Cup success, 29 Year Old Fabiański has brought an end to his Arsenal career and rightly so. The transfer from Arsenal to Swansea is purly based on a footballing reason, one cannot blame or have bad feelings towards Fabiański's decision. The competition between he and Szczęsny was  healthy to a certain extent, heathly in the sense that Arsneal would have a wonderful back up to that of  Szczęsny, in case he picked up an injury, or if a rotation was needed  like that of the FA Cup.  And on that platform Fabiański showcased his worth.  

On the other hand  playing  as a back to Szczęsny would have been immoral, reason being like Szczęsny he too is an outstanding keeper, a talent like his should not go to waste, it would have been ideal for Arsenal to have two first rate keepers. However both Fabiański and Szczęsny are Polish Internationals  one playing behind the other for the same club, would prevent the other from being Cap for their Country.

Speaking to the press Fabiański said "The main reason I came to Swansea was because I want to be the number one goalkeeper". I for one cannot and will not hold any bad grudges against that man who help to bring an end to the 9 Year Trophy drought. Swansea FC is a well respected club, which plays artful Football.

 It has been a fraustrating seven Year 7 spell, troubled by injures although he wasn't able to take the Number 1 spot. Fabiański will be remembered for his contributions to this Year FA Cup. May 17th 2014 is a date that Arsenal fans will never forget. For that I would like to would like to wish Łukasz Fabiański all the best for the future. 

      

THANK YOU Fabiański 

CONGRATULATIONS TO ARSENAL 2014 FA CUP CHAMPIONS

         

Bernabéu valedictory for Benzema ?

According to The Telegraph Arsenal are preparing to make another move for their long term target Karim Benzema. Last summer transfer window saw the arrival of Mesut Özil, Arsène at the time tried to pen an agreement, for Benzema, but the departure of Gonzalo Higuain made it impossible for Real Madrid to sell. Benzema found his form back in November of this current season, Real are rumored to be keeping a watchful eye on the Premier League Player of the Year and Golden Boot winner Luis Suarez. Any deal between Arsenal and Madrid could be in the region of £30m. This would allow Real to make a bid solid bid for Suarez. 

Arsène has been an admirer of Benzema for some time now, in previous interviews he has boldly given his thoughts on the star striker. which is unlike his character when it comes to monitoring a player Arsène usually remains tight lipped, whether that is out of respect for the player's club,or Arsène being smart and not wanting other big clubs to swoop and seal a deal, only he would know the answer to that. But a few years back Arsène went against his usual self, and gave us his view on the likelihood of bringing Benzema to the Emirates, stating that "Signing him does not seem impossible. He's a player that I like. He's intelligent in his movement, he is capable of combining well with others and making a difference, and of doing individual moves as well. So for me he's a player who's at the top level in the world".With the obvious need for a World class striker Arsène may feel that the time has come to finally close a deal on the inform and proven striker.


Real Madrid like Arsenal are yet to conclude their season. Both have two major finals to look forward to, Arsenal will be playing against Hull City in the FA Cup Final at Wembley this coming Saturday. whilst Real will be making preparations for their Champions League Final against arch rivals Atletico Madrid on the 24 of May. Any possible glimpse of re interest from Arsène for Benzema may come after both teams have played out their last game of season.    

Benzema hasn't firmly cemented himself into the starting line up at Real. Reason being Real has excellent players which can be a good and bad thing for both players and the team as a whole. For the team it is great to have players of high quality, as it will drive other players into competing with each other which could possible bring out the best in a player. But sometimes a new manager may come in and have a different or specific style of play, so they may favor one player to another.

Take Jose Mourinho for example, at times it looked at if he favored Higuain as his first striker, who often played slightly ahead of Benzema. Now that doesn't indicate that Benzema isn't good enough to be a regular in the starting line up. For me situations like these are bound to happen when you have team that is filled with star players, don't get me wrong having marquee players is a wonderful advantage. However too many World class players could be damaging for any given player, not because they are no longer good. But  because there are too many excellence within the team, so it then becomes difficult for a player to be distinct or the main attraction, because their work rate may go unnoticed or overshadowed. Which brings us to whether a transfer to Arsenal would be a good move to Benzema. In my view I believe it could be, Essentially because Arsenal need a player of his capability, getting into the team isn't a question that needs to be asked. Not only is he guaranteed regular game time, but I believe a move to Arsenal will take his career to new heights. Yes he is still regarded as as World class striker, but the talk of him being classed as the best striker has been left unsaid for sometime now. Moving to Arsenal could put him up there as being one of the World's best strikers. Benzema has wonderful movement on the ball, similar to his French teammate Giroud he too is able to hold up play. Which is a joy watch when your team is about to break on counterattacks. One key quality that he brings to the game is that he has the understanding and connection, of being able to link up with his midfielders. Arsenal have a midfield that is bursting with a range of gifted players, the addition of Benzema would benefit all. 

 Could it be third time lucky for Arsène , I believe so. The arrival of former teammate Özil together  with fellow Countrymen Giroud and Sagna for the time being, could potentially be enough to tempt Benzema to the Emirates. I believe the signing of Özil is the blueprint of good things to come, not only did it prove to Arsène critics that he isn't shy of spending, It also illustrated that Arsenal is still regarded as a big club to the most exciting of players. The signing of Özil may not make it easier for us to sign big name players as many are assuming, but what it does is it demonstrate that Arsenal are now able to compete with the big clubs,and that like other well respected top clubs they too mean business. 

On a good note Benzema has a year remaining on his contract, to me Real have not fully acknowledge his worth, like Özil I do not believe that he has been truly valued by previous managers. So perhaps he might feel that the time has come for him to make a change and challenge himself to something new. But as I said previously Benzema has found form since November, Ancelotti has given him more game time by which he has proven his valuation. It could be for this reason as to why they may decide to extend his contract, or if they are unable to reach an agreement with Premier League Runners Up Liverpool for Suarez.  

Will Sánchez be a Summer signing ?

Could Alexis Sánchez be Arsenal's first summer signing, sources in Italy have indicated that a possible deal may be on the table, but the Gunners could also face a tight competition from Serie A Champions Juventus. 

Over recent years Sánchez has been somewhat of a dark horse, although his talent doesn't need to be questioned, due to previous lack of game time he has been unable to demonstrate his worth, however this season he has been one of Barcelona's most prominent players. Under the management of Gerardo Martino he has recorded his best ever season in a Barcelona shirt.Which begs the question of asking will Barcelona be willing to sell such a serviceable talent. 

The 25 Year old Chilean is an all round player who is capable of playing as a centre forward or on either side of the wing. Since his move to the Camp Nou he has been unable to establish himself as a regular to the starting line up. However so far this season he has made 53 appearance given the opportunity by new manager Martino. Sánchez has racked up a goal tally of 20 goals and counting. The lack of frequent starts and game time must  be frustrating for a player of his ability, having had such as formative season two teams are now looking to make their move. 

Serie A Champions Juventus are reportedly planning to place a bid of £15m, Arsenal are also showing interest. In terms of finance the Gunners has the healthier financial stance, with their new Puma kit deal and a lusty transfer kitty, it is safe to say Juventus would be no competition IF Barcelona were to reject the £15m bid, Arsenal depending on how much they want Sánchez could table a bid of £20m. On the other hand any possible agreement between both club may come down to the player's personal agreement or choice, from his time spent with Udinese Sánchez has Serie A experience, he may personally feel as if he has some unfinished business for the side who gave him the most career caps.

 Arsenal and Barcelona have both sold each other players in the past, the likes of Jon Toral ,Héctor Bellerín and Cesc Fàbregas made the transfer from Barcelona to Arsenal, whilst Thierry Henry, Marc Overmars Alexandre Hleb together with others made the switch to the Camp Nou. I like to believe that Barcelona owes us one, having bought back Fabregas back in 2011 when he was regarded as a Prince to the Arsenal fans. I think it is about time they return the favor.

A transfer to Arsenal would be a smart career move for Sánchez. Reason being is because Arsenal unlike Barcelona are in need of a proven striker, game time would not be an issue. The style of play between both Arsenal and Barcelona are fairly similar, both play one two football with quick slick passes, so adapting to the Arsenal team shouldn't be a challenge compared to the challenge that he might face if he were to move to Juventus.

The World Cup is less than a month away. Having recording his best ever season Sánchez is promising to make a name for himself in Brasil, being a utility player with experience on some of the highest level, The World Cup is known to inflate players price-tags, that may well be the case if Sánchez were to have a successful appearance, It is for this very reason as to why Arsène may decide to complete the deal beforehand. But the history of the World Cup is also known for bringing forth new, fresh and unexpected talents. So do not be surprised if Arsène doesn't make a solid move, like other managers he too will be on the look out for a proficient talent, one who may come in the form of a striker.

Serge Aurier to Arsenal ?

Could Serge Aurier be on his way to Arsenal, the prolong delay in regards to Sagna's contract extension looks like it has hit a dead end. With manager Arsène Wenger commenting on the situation as "That is not close to be closed. "I will have to accept it because only he can decide that now. If he goes we will accept it, we will accept it and respond." The long wait suggests that the French man may be on his way out of the Emirates this summer, With Aurier looking likely to be his replacement. 

21 Year old Aurier is a highly rated Right Back in French Football, his talent has caught the eye of many of Europe's big club. 

The potential departure of Bacary Sagna isn't a thought that sits well with me, I believe that we should do whatever it takes to keep hold of him, as he has a lot to offer the team both on and off the pitch. I often believed that Sagna would be a teacher to Jenkinson schooling him in the right way, so that when he is ready to retire or move onto another club, the change at Right Back is smooth and tidy. 

I am a firm believer in if something isn't broken one must not fix it. Likewise the same goes for the Arsenal back four they have been rock solid this season, especially the partnership between Mertesacker and Koscielny the understanding between the two have been second to none, and a joy to watch. Lets not forget Gibbs and Sagna both of which have contributed well in most games. If for once our defense is exceeding all expectations and playing at their best, would it make sense to disrupt that, I think not. Overall the team are now moving in the right direction they are no longer classed as the "Young Gunners", who are prone to making sloppy mistakes, But instead they have plenty of experience and leadership on their sides. The likes of Chamberlain would benefit from having Sagna in the team, whether they play in the same position or not truly doesn't matter. It all comes down to being able to educate the younger players, so that they can shape their game, and erase the fear that they have in them, when it comes to facing up against the big clubs.

In a game between Manchester United and Arsenal Patrice Evra once said "It was 11 men against 11 children. We never doubted ourselves. We have much more experience and that's what made the difference". Now that our boys have grown into men, players like Sagna, Mertesacker and Rosicky offers up the experience that we previous lacked, as things current stand the defense is superb possibly one of the best in the Premier League. I believe that area should be left untouched, instead I believe we should focus on a position that urgently needs adjusting. Like for example Centre Forward, although Giroud has played well this season scoring over 20+ goals, it simply isn't good enough, Giroud would work wonders as a second striker playing behind a Centre Forward. One could only imagine what he could have done if he had the partnership of Robin Van Persie, what some have forgotten is that Giroud was initially brought in to play alongside RVP before he made the switch to United. Giroud I believe is a complementary striker if a top Centre Forward does arrive in the summer, I believe we will see the best of Giroud. If Sagna is to say goodbye to the Emirates I would like to wish him all the best of luck, even if he ends up at the Etihad. 

In comparison to Aurier some may say Sagna is the safer and better option, reason being he has years of Premier league experience, he is familiar with the tempo of the league and has adapted well to it. Aurier on the other hand may have the slight advantage in terms of what he offers. As a utility player not only  can he defend at Right Back, but he is excellent at driving forward and putting in good crosses, at 5'ft9in he holds a remarkable aerial threat. Now the change from French League 1 side Tolouse to Arsenal is a great difference, so his talent may or may not be showcased in his first season. Take Ozil for example coming from La Liga to the English Premier League  got the better of him, although he started off well, midway through the season his game play became extremely sloppy. He isn't to be blamed though playing in La Liga his body had gotten use to having a winter break, the tempo that comes with the Premier league may not have been something that his body was physically prepared for.On the other hand I believe next season he will  be outstanding, not only will be retain the rights of being called the assist king, but he will also be in the run in for player of the year.

Remember when Arsène went on to making the signing of Koscielny, pundits all over believed that they too were football managers, and that Arsène insted should be signing Gary Cahill, with all respect to Cahill he does a tremendous job as a Centre Back. But ask any Arsenal fan about Koscielny and they will tell you that he is one of our best signing. Coming from FC Lorient in the French League 1 Koscielny didn't get off to the best of starts, I believe the fans got to witness his true potential from the 2012-13 season, since then he has continued to make improvements to his game, On arrival to Arsenal he was an underdog very few people knew much about him, however he is now regarded as one of the best Centre Back, that to me is an applaudable accomplishment. Similar to Koscielny if he is to sign for Arsenal Aurier will be coming from the league 1 in France. Playing as a Right Back is a  demanding job with the tempo of the Premier league he may not be able to hit the ground running with immediate affect. But with his utility at such a young age if he is able to stay focus and work hard, the mastermind of Arsène will empower him to become a great Right Back. With all his potential I do believe Aurier is an excellent successor for Sagna, he has already practice wearing the famous Red and White of Arsenal, come summer he just might be wearing our colours for good.  

Arsenal make enquiry about Javi Martínez

The summer transfer window is only a few months away,but that has not stopped sources from making speculations.

In under two months the 2014 summer transfer window will officially open, one name that is already linked to Arsenal is Javi Martínez.

According to The Telegraph Arsenal have made an enquiry to Bayern Munich in regards to the possible sale of Martínez. Having only joined Munich back in 2012 Martínez still has 3 more years left on his contract, this would indicate that any possible agreement between Arsenal and Munich could cost in the region of £25m,for a player of his versatility I do believe that price tag is worth it.

After reading the reports from Germany, the sale of Martínez from Munich to Arsenal could happen. There are indications that the player isn't happy. Guardiola this season has played Martínez in an unfavourable position. "I don’t have as much freedom on the field anymore,” he said. “I don’t get forward as often and my game is a little more static. The coach [Guardiola] believes that I can play in any of the central positions and I’ll play where I’m needed.l". Having not been able to play in his rightful position, one that allows him showcase his talent, may be enough for him to call it a day and look elsewhere, perhaps at a club that would play him in his preferred position, a club that would value having his quality in their team.

What does Martínez offer? Years of  quality experience from both La Liga as well as the Bundesliga:

Athletic Bilbao
UEFA Europa League Runner- up 2011-12

Copa del Rey Runner- up 2008-09  2011-12

Supercopa de Espana Runner-up 2009

Bayern Munich

Bundesliga 2012-13  2013-14

DFB-Pokal 2012-13

UEFA Champions League 2012-13

UEFA Super Cup 2013

FIFA Club World Cup 2013

 Let's not forget his experience at International level:

Spain

FIFA World Cup 2010

UEFA European Championship 2012

FIFA Confederation Cup Runner-up 2013

Spain U21

Spain U19

UEFA European under-19 Championship 2007

UEFA European under-21 Championship 2011

There is no doubt that the Arsenal midfield has a lot to offer, with players such as Ramsey,Cazorla  Özil and Wilshere all of which have what is it takes to torment any opposition, the potential addition of Martínez would be a complementary buy, bringing him into the team as a Defensive Midfielder would allow the partnership of Ramsey,Cazorla and Özil to flourish. With his years of experience from various levels I do believe he is player that we are or will be looking at, but that is one of the major problems with Arsenal we have a dreadful habit of time wasting when it comes to scouting players, as good as they may be, we tend to always be shy of closing a deal. Regardless of how beneficial a player may be to our team,in the past we have allowed bigger clubs to come along and beat us to the all important signature. It has happened with the likes of Mata and Hazard both of which went on to signing for London rivals  Chelsea FC. If we are serious about bringing home major titles to the Emirates, we must for once get these deals done and dusted, before we are left to play tug-of-war with the other clubs, when it comes down to that they unfortunately always win.

Del Bosque once compared Martínez to our legend Patrick Vieira calling him "a complete player"

If you are questioning whether or not Martínez is worth the buy, I must highlight to you that, in 2010 he was La Liga's breakthrough player of the Year, that surly illustrates that Martínez has something special to offer, past winners for this award were fellow Countrymen Carles Puyol, Iker Casillas and Sergio Ramos. will Martínez be wearing the red and white of Arsenal next season, I sure do hope so.