Arsenal legend Charlie Nicholas believes that Arsenal do not need to sign a top new defensive midfielder, but should consider a move for someone who can provide backup to the likes of Francis Coquelin in that deep midfield role.
The Gunners have been linked heavily with a move for Mohamed Elneny in recent weeks, who has been likened to Santi Cazorla for his deep playmaker style in midfield, however, reports have yet to be confirmed by Arsene Wenger or the club.
Speaking on Gillette Soccer Special regarding Wenger’s reluctance to listen to claims he should buy a new defensive midfielder, Nicholas claimed that the depth in midfield is something Arsenal need to consider.
The one key position of importance right now is a holding midfield player. That’s been evident since Coquelin made his name, not just now that he’s injured. To prove Arteta was just about done, Flamini can cover for a couple of games but ultimately doesn’t really have the legs anymore, so yes, they need always that cover.Yes, they probably need a centre back, Gabriel probably should have pushed Mertesacker out by now but hasn’t.
Yes, they probably need a centre back, Gabriel probably should have pushed Mertesacker out by now but hasn’t.
Nicholas then highlighted who he believes the Gunners should sign, with the likes of Mikel Arteta, Tomas Rosicky and Mathieu Flamini all reportedly leaving at the end of the current campaign.
Wenger looks at things differently. I’d be amazed if Arteta’s not finished, he might get a coaching role. Flamini will probably go, Rosicky is probably done because he can’t play more, so there’s three greats there that are going to go.
It makes more sense for me to go for someone 30, 31, 32. Now, there’s a few about, if I was Arsenal, I’d go for Carrick. He’s not got the pace or legs but I think they need somebody with experience and authority who can pass it. He won’t start every week once Coquelin comes in, but he can teach as well as play.
The north London side face Bournemouth at the Emirates Stadium on Monday afternoon.
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