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The transfer window has shut and all things considered it’s been a very good one for The Arsenal. Had the Gunners also managed to sign Aouar and move on two or three other players deemed surplus to requirements it would have been a 10/10 window. But I’m going to give them a 9/10.
When you consider the economic climate due to the pandemic it was an extremely difficult time to sell players as very few clubs were in a position to splash the cash.
I feel it was best for all concerned to loan Guendouzi out for the season as there was obviously friction between him and Arteta and if he performs well in Germany it may attract a buyer for him in the summer. I loved Torreira when he first came to the club but he had lost his way a bit after suffering a bad injury and matters weren’t helped by Emery playing him out of position so it is probably in his best interests to make a fresh start in Spain with a new club – and again: if he does the business out there we can cash in on him in the summer window. As much as I was sad to see Martinez leave after his heroics filling in for Leno £20 million was an excellent fee for him. Not too sure though about his replacement in Runarsson if Leno suffers another injury.
It’s a pity Kolasinac’s transfer to Bayern Leverkusen fell through and we didn’t manage to move Sokratis, Mustafi or Ozil on. However the window is open again on 1st January so there will be another opportunity to move them on then and at worst all four of those players contracts expire on 30th June 2021 which will give Arsenal a saving of £630,000 a week in wages on those four players.
As it stands Arsenal will have to leave two players out when we register our squad. My money would be on Ozil and Sokratis as being the two to miss out.
As for incoming players. You don’t get much better than signing Thomas Partey at the 11th hour. It’s a sensational piece of business by the club and full credit must go to Arteta, Edu and especially to the Kroenke’s. I’ve been critical of them and wanted them to step up to the plate and go the extra mile to get the sort of players Arteta needs to take us to the next level and Thomas Partey is definitely one of those. The Kroenke’s sanctioned the move and provided the funds so fair play to them.
Earlier in the window we made another excellent signing in Gabriel at a very good price and the side now has a proper spine with Leno, Gabriel, Partey and Aubameyang. Willian on a free transfer was another shrewd signing.
Securing the signature of Aubameyang on an extension to his contract was crucial and getting Saka and Martinelli to commit their future to the club was once again great work by the club. I was also delighted that Arsenal managed to get Ceballos back on loan for another season. Mari and Soares are also good solid additions to the squad.
I’m full of optimism and belief that Arteta with this squad can get the Gunners firing on all cylinders and get us back where we belong in the Champions League places. I and I’m sure most of you are looking forward to an exciting season ahead.
Started going to Highbury in ’66. Season ticket holder since ’76. Love The Arsenal. Need I say more?
Hi Gary, thanks for this article. I am glad that the Kroenkes ( contrary to my expectations ) supported Arteta and Edu. Obviously they have confidence in Arteta. I am now looking forward to our next match. Given the full support of the fans Arteta will bring big results. Its simple – in a bad team, it was difficult to raise any excitement from our players but already we can see an enthusiasm that hasn`t been there for many years and there are plenty of young players also straining to play. I dont think any team will have an easy victory against us,